Perfection Doesn’t Make A Champion

                                                      

 The ability of your child to get her head in the game and let go of previous mistakes is necessary for good competition and desired  success. If the young athlete isn’t able to let go of past races, mistakes on a jump or throw can create a frustration that can harm future competitive endeavors.

Often time parents note this behavior as “checking out, not all there”. This frustration can lead to a lose of confidence and leaving the sport altogether over time.

It is important for the young athlete to learn how to let go of mistakes and remain composed and calm at the height of competition. Not learning how to stay in mental control increases the potential of lower that expected performance.

 

A few questions a parent can ask herself are:

• How can I help my child over come the frustration she some times experiences after mistakes or less than stellar performances?
• How can I  help address the challenges regarding my daughter being too hard on herself and crying when she makes mistakes.

If you don’t necessarily have the answers there are many great resources to help understand and guide your young athlete.

 

I have enjoyed recently the following books:

 

The Sports Parenting Edge   By Rick Wolff a book on how to to juggle school, coaches praise and criticism of the youth athlete and, Flying Lessons  By Gregg Steinberg , PhD. A book  full of strategies to increase confidence in life and sports.

Until Next Time

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