How can an athlete make a comeback after a long period of failure?
Slumps happen. I worked with a baseball player who went through this situation. Baseball players know they will strike out about 70% of the time but when failure continues, it is time to make an adjustment. Here are 4 things you can do when you find yourself in a slump or losing streak:
1. Rest. I mean, really rest! Take a long nap. Ask for a whole day to sleep or take complete rest for a week if you can. Go for a long walk by the beach, in the woods or anywhere in nature. Even taking a walk in the city, you can notice the trees, water, birds and flowers or the color of the sky and the formations of clouds. Watch children playing. Listen to the sounds of life going on around you. Do something that will take your mind completely out of the game.
2. Get a fresh perspective. Ask someone who loves and supports you, no matter what, to look at your game and your overall situation. This person will have a unique perspective and can help you pinpoint what is bothering you and to see what you can adjust. A friend who is not in your sport can be an excellent sleuth. If you don't have a friend like this, call me! I am a professional life coach and will support you to overcome obstacles and reach your goals. Above all, walk away from critical people, no matter who they are, who offer negative opinions.
3. Count your blessings. Enthusiasm comes from gratitude. I once watched a group of professional athletes dragging and moping on the field. It was just before their season and I was so surprised that I asked one of them why he was in this state when an exciting new season was about to begin. His excuse was, it was a Sunday. The town he was in was boring. His team never made the playoffs. Practice gratitude. Say thank you for all your blessings. Enthusiasm comes from gratitude.
4. Shift your attention from beating yourself up or putting yourself down to simply observing the situation. Ask, How did I bring this about? Take time. Really listen to what comes up. Then ask, What one thing can I do today to start getting me where I do want to be? Gail Devers overcame Graves disease, baby step by baby step, to continue pursuing her Olympic dreams. In 2007, at age 40, she won the 60 m hurdles at the Millrose Games. It was the best time in the world that season!
Dana Nellen is a performance specialist, yoga coach and life coach, with 35 years experience, assisting athletes and elite performers to achieve champion performance without drugs or steroids.
Coaching for Champions: The Nellen Method for Peak Performance™. Copyright 2011. All rights reserved.
