Confidence & Pressure
How do I deal with doubt before a competition?
Rhema Adelaja · National Champion & 4x DUX
Write your doubts down, answer each one with facts from your own training, then spend about 30 seconds picturing yourself doing your plan. Focus on the process, not the result.
The answer
- Write down the fear exactly as it sounds, for example "What if I miss my first pass?"
- Under it, write an answer based on facts: your training log, your reps, your past results. Not empty positive thinking.
- Close your eyes for about 30 seconds and picture the process: your feet, the contact, the movement. Not just the result.
- Add this to your pre-competition routine, for example the night before or just before you put your headphones on.
- Focus on what you control. Aim for "I will do my routine every time", not "I must win".
For information only. This is general information for student-athletes, not medical, legal, financial or professional advice. Talk to a qualified professional about your own situation. Terms