Players differ a lot in their reactions to a loss. Some may be barely affected or may forget the loss almost immediately. Others will be virtually devastated and may be low-spirited for days or weeks. The same differences apply to making mistakes in games or even training.⠀
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It is normal to be upset over a loss and mistakes. You shouldn’t feel that there is something wrong with you after you played below your standard or made mistakes you are capable of avoiding. The problem comes when you can’t let go of those negative thoughts and feelings, or when you start doubting your ability to perform in the present. ⠀
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Prolonged negative reactions to bad play becomes a mental burden or a weight that brings you down and interferes with your game. Of course no player wants to remind themselves of mistakes, but if you don’t take proactive steps to “let go” of the bad, you are doomed to repeat those same mistakes in future games. Letting go of the past is not simply a matter of forgetting the last mistake… Letting go requires that you make a conscious choice on where to place your focus. By allowing the past to occupy your present, you double your opposition. Not only will you be competing against the other team, but you will also be battling the negativity you created in your own mind.⠀
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The goal is to quickly return focus to the next moment of the game with optimism. In what is controllable, it is fair to quickly assess what changes are worth making, but this is never a chance to dwell on mistakes and missed opportunities. Furthermore, the process should be considered over a split second, not a drawn out process. This is problem-solving, rather than creating. With what is uncontrollable, learn to allow these emotions to pass by as they bring you no benefit. Post-game reflection can consider the mistakes with greater detail, but even then, always with an eye for future improvement. See what went wrong. Plan how to change it in the future if applicable. Apply your plans and execute.
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