“I’m not perfect. But I am trying every day to concentrate on being better.” Allen Iverson

Most basketball players who find success on the court learn the importance of setting goals.

The mind’s ability to focus drives the body’s ability to perform at a higher level. Setting process goals is the first step in reaching the ultimate goal.

Process goals are mini goals that strengthen mental focus and help maintain a positive mindset to keep you working towards the big goal.

Sports psychologists for basketball promote process goals to keep an athlete’s thoughts focused on their present and not worrying about the results.

During the establishment of process goals, it is important to incorporate two different types: performance and mental process goals. Both eliminate worry about an outcome but rather maintain a constant focus on what you are doing right now.

Performance goals are strictly concerned with action in the present time.

A great example would be to give 100% effort towards working on your goal every day, which is easily stated but sometimes challenging to adhere to when you are tired, things are not going your way, or you do not see any improvements.

The athlete with this performance goal would constantly push to go all. During practice, they will analyze their current effort and decide if they were truly giving their all.

Another excellent performance process goal might be to drive strong to the basket or “play with power.” This sustains an encouraging mindset not concerned with the result of the drive or aggressive play. It simply allows you to keep a persistent mental focus by managing your thoughts.

An effective mental reset is to direct your thoughts to a positive action plan, not a reaction to a negative experience.

The power that an athlete’s mental game plays into the overall success they find on the court is just as important as their physical abilities.

Basketball confidence is strengthened and maintained by developing an effective plan for mental toughness and focus.

Process goals provide one facet in maintaining an overall mental toughness for the game and establishing a “live in the moment” attitude.

Miami Heat coach Eric Spoelstra once offered his advice about living and playing in the present when he said, “that’s probably the best way to live in life is in the moment, and that will guarantee you’re in the moment.”

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