Hey athletes! Today we're diving into the world of goal setting. We all know the drill: set SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound), crush them, and celebrate the victory. But what if there's a more fulfilling way to approach your goals?
Traditionally, goals are mainly about the outcome: winning the race, beating a personal best, or securing a coveted spot on the team. The truth is, we chase goals because we crave the feelings they'll bring us. The elation of victory, the confidence of pushing our limits, the sense of belonging in a team environment. These desired feelings are the true fuel for our athletic journeys.
Here's why focusing on these feelings is a game-changer:
Intrinsic Motivation: When the goal is about feeling strong, focused, or determined, the drive comes from within. External validation becomes a bonus, not the sole purpose.
Process-Oriented: Daily actions that cultivate your desired feelings become the focus, not just the outcome of competition. You'll find joy in the training itself, not just the finish line.
Resilience in the Face of Setbacks: Even when results don't go your way, you can still achieve your desired feelings. A tough loss doesn't have to mean a loss of confidence or joy in the sport.
So, how do we tap into these core desired feelings?
Feel the Feels: Take time to identify what emotions you truly desire from your athletic experience. Do you crave the feeling of being "in the zone"? The camaraderie of a strong team? The satisfaction of pushing your limits?
Feeling-Focused Goals: Instead of just "win the next race," reframe it as "compete with focus and present-moment awareness." This keeps the desired feeling (focus) at the forefront.
Daily Feeling-Cultivating Actions: What daily habits or training elements cultivate those desired feelings? Prioritize these actions – meditation for focus, team bonding activities for camaraderie, etc.
Remember, athletes, reaching the finish line is just a part of the journey. By focusing on the feelings you crave, you'll find a deeper well of motivation, build resilience, and ultimately, experience the joy of the sport in its purest form.
Own your focus. Own your game
Kate
About: Kate Allgood is educated in the field of applied sport psychology. She holds two Masters degrees in psychology where she graduated with distinction. After a very successful hockey career, she has spent the past 14 years working one on one with high school, college, Olympic, and professional athletes to help them with their mindset, mental performance and mental skills training. Kate has also been a consultant for professional teams, including the Anaheim Ducks primary minor league affiliate the San Diego Gulls, to help the team and players develop their mental game. It is important to note that while Kate has graduate school training in applied sport psychology and general psychology, she does not diagnose or treat clinical disorders, and is not a licensed psychologist.
**The information provided is not to dispense medical advice or prescribe the use of any technique, either directly or indirectly, as a form of treatment for physical, emotional, or medical problems, without the advice of a physician. The information provided is only to offer information of a general nature to help you in your quest for high performance. If you know or suspect you have a health problem, it is recommended you seek your physician's advice.
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