“I have to lead by example. As a leader, you have to take the blame when it’s necessary, and even sometimes when it’s not your fault” Aaron Rodgers

Your football mind is more important than the physical body.

If you’re not mentally capable of performing on the football field, the physical performance will suffer.

In sports psychology for football, it is essential to train the brain and train the body every time you practice.

A Calm vs. A Stressed State Of Mind

When you combine the types of focus (internal and external) with the ways you focus (helpful and harmful), you mainly get two distinct states of mind: a calm state of mind and a stressed state of mind.

When you are absorbed by what you are doing, you are engaged and present. By not judging, you allow your potential to take over. This is your calm state of mind.

The other state of mind is triggered when the painful memories and trauma that have been suppressed for long, they want to be set free so that there is space in your mind and heart for new energies.

It can happen on its own when there is something not happening according to your plan, and you start having flashbacks of negative things of the past.

Whenever you go through something for a long time and there is a change in the pattern, good or bad, you feel anxious. Your football confidence shifts, because that’s something that your mind and body aren’t used to — the fear of the unknown.

What causes stress depends, at least in part, on your perception of it.

External Causes of Stress

Not all stress is caused by external factors. Stress can also be self-generated:

Relationship difficulties with coaches and teammates
Financial problems
Family problems

Internal Causes of Stress

Inability to accept uncertainty
Pessimism
Negative self-talk
Unrealistic expectations
Perfectionism
Lack of assertiveness

Firstly, recognize your stress and anxiety patterns. It means you need to reach a state where you are capable of realizing restlessness and calmness of the mind.

Of course, it is easier said than done. It is possible when you develop a pre-game mindset of being calm.

Do you know how successful athletes stay calm, even in difficult situations?

They follow a pre-game routine up until they get to the stadium. They wake up and start their pre-game mental preparation.

They know Game Day is the time for trusting themselves. Coming in with a well-trained football mind, confidence, and a clear head.

*FREE Guided Imagery Audio – Text Mental Game to 33777 and get your free Guided Imagery Audio. This will help you elevate your game sooner, quicker, and faster!