How to Use Self-Talk During Games
Quick Summary:
- Self-talk is the internal dialogue that shapes your mindset and performance as an athlete.
- During competition, use self-talk strategically—not constantly—to stay present and confident.
- Replace negative thoughts with positive, productive ones to improve focus and emotional control.
- Use self-talk to: Refocus on your process when you drift toward outcome thinking. Push through pain and fatigue in endurance sports. Recover quickly after mistakes by learning and moving forward.
- The goal isn’t to think more—it’s to make your thoughts helpful when they appear.