Mastering focus, overcoming self-doubt, and coaching with clarity
Hey, team, happy Sunday!
This week, we’re diving into how to stay locked in, silence self-doubt, and communicate clearly as a coach. Let’s get after it.
Table of Contents
For Athletes: Train Your Focus Like a Muscle
3 Ways to Improve Your Focus on the Field
Focus is a skill, not a talent. Train it like any other part of your game—one rep at a time.
What you focus on grows. If you dwell on mistakes, they’ll feel bigger. If you focus on improvement, your game will follow.
The best athletes master the next-play mindset. Whether you just made a highlight or a mistake, move on quickly.
2 Quotes to Strengthen Your Mental Game
Steph Curry: "I can’t control the shots that go in, but I can control my preparation and my confidence."
Wayne Gretzky: "I skate to where the puck is going, not where it has been."
1 Question to Reflect On
What’s one thing that distracts you in games, and how can you train to block it out?
For Parents: Helping Athletes Overcome Self-Doubt
3 Ways to Build Their Confidence
Teach them to focus on effort, not just outcomes. A great attitude and strong work ethic build confidence over time.
Encourage them to reflect on past successes. When doubt creeps in, remind them of what they’ve already overcome.
Model confidence yourself. If you stay positive after their setbacks, they’ll learn to do the same.
2 Quotes to Keep in Mind
Serena Williams: "Every champion was once a contender that refused to give up."
Jerry Rice: "Today I will do what others won’t, so tomorrow I can do what others can’t."
1 Question to Reflect On
Are your words building up your athlete’s confidence or adding to their doubt?
For Coaches: Communicate with Clarity, Not Confusion
3 Ways to Get Your Message Across Effectively
The best coaching isn’t about saying more—it’s about saying the right things at the right time.
Athletes learn in different ways. Some need to see it, some need to hear it, and some need to do it. Adapt your teaching.
Confidence starts with clarity. If an athlete knows exactly what you expect, they’ll be more likely to execute.
2 Quotes to Inspire Your Leadership
Phil Jackson: "Good teams become great ones when the members trust each other enough to surrender the 'me' for the 'we'."
Vince Lombardi: "Perfection is not attainable, but if we chase perfection, we can catch excellence."
1 Question to Reflect On
Are you coaching in a way that your athletes clearly understand, or are they just nodding along?
Want to help your circle improve? Share this newsletter.
Until next week, keep building your mindset.
David Lovell
Mental Performance Coach | Creator of the F.O.C.U.S. System
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