What matters is how you transition from a training mindset to a performance on game day mindset. The Be-Do-Have state change model works a charm.
As an athlete or sportsperson, preparing for the game day is crucial in achieving optimum performance. Proper preparation lays the foundation for a successful game or tournament. It involves physical, mental, and emotional preparation to achieve peak performance.
Transition from the training mindset to competition mindset, using the Be-Do-Have model. Quite simply, be the person who steps into competition, do the things they would do, so that you can have access to the things they have. It sounds easy yet needs to be mastered. Some other tips to step into "being" are listed below.
1. Sleep helps the body to rest, recover, and be rejuvenated, and also plays a vital role in ensuring that the body's mental and physical performance is at an optimal level. Sleep deprivation negatively affects an athlete's alertness, reaction time, mood, and overall performance. Therefore, it is recommended that athletes get enough sleep, at least 7-8 hours of sleep, during the night before game day.
2. Proper hydration is essential to an athlete because it affects the performance of an athlete. Dehydration can cause fatigue, dizziness, and cramps, resulting in poor performance. Therefore, it is necessary to hydrate your body adequately by drinking water, sports drinks, or other fluids that are rich in electrolytes. This will help to replenish the water and nutrients that your body loses during the game.
3. A proper warm-up helps to prepare the body for the physical activity that lies ahead. It reduces the risk of injury and helps to improve the athlete's stamina, flexibility, and range of motion. A warm-up routine should consist of general exercises and stretching. Proper stretching helps to improve mobility, reduce muscle tension, and decrease the risk of injury. This helps to get your muscles ready to perform at their optimum level once the game begins.
4. Nutrition is essential to athletes as it provides the energy needed for training and game day. Athletes need to consume an adequate amount of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, depending on their activity level, age, and body weight. Consuming a variety of foods a day before the game is important to provide the energy that is needed for the game.
5. There is a lot of anxiety and pressure on game day. Mental preparation ensures that an athlete's focus and mindset are at an optimal level, boosting confidence and reducing the likelihood of choking under pressure. This involves visualizing the game, practicing mindfulness, maintaining useful thoughts, and trusting the process. It's easy to get bogged down with negative thoughts or external pressures, but staying focused on the immediate task at hand will help keep you mentally clear and in control of the situation - access flow state. Remember you are here, because you deserve it.
6. Before stepping onto the game field, perform your rituals and know your anchor. These rituals would be the anchor to step from the trainer to the performer / competitor role. I have helped numerous athletes figure out what is personal to them, integrate that as part of their ritual and use that as an anchor to come back to the present moment.
7. Having a game-day plan that outlines what an athlete wants to achieve during the game and what tactics they should employ is crucial. It's essential to strategize, have a solid game plan, and be adaptable to changes throughout the game. Preparing this game plan with your team and coach can help to ensure that everyone is on the same page and ready to execute the plan flawlessly. Keep in mind that flexibility is key, so be prepared to adjust the plan if things don't go exactly as planned.
# Conclusion
In conclusion, preparation is essential when it comes to game-day performance. The Be-Do-Have model will help you with that. In order to achieve any level of success, athletes must take the time and commitment to prepare themselves not only physically but also mentally and emotionally. Getting adequate rest, hydration, proper nutrition, and warm-up routines are all critical steps that can help athletes to achieve peak performance on game day. Mental preparation, dressing appropriately, and having a game-day plan are crucial elements that can help athletes to stay focused, motivated, and in control of a game. It takes hard work and determination to be an athlete, and with these tips, you'll have a solid foundation to help propel you to success. Good luck! What are your game day rituals to get you in the right state to succeed?
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