Tips for high school and college athletes: Attitude

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As an athlete, you know a great defense keeps the other side from scoring. A solid offense wins alot of points for the team. But, whether you play offense or defense, it is your attitude that packs the power.

If you have an offensive attitude, if you carry a grudge or bad temper rules your play, you are going to be one tense, anxious, testy person on the field and off. Belligerence leads to someone getting hurt, emotionally or physically....AND you are going to get back what you put out: Some pretty heavy negative words and actions. Not too cool.

If you have a defensive attitude, it ends up the same way: You will be testy with teammates and resist criticism. Your body is going to be tense, muscles tight, you will feel anxious, and you won't make such good decisions on the field.

With a negative attitude, you are way more inclined to get injured and you won't get the longterm results you want in your sport career, how ever long you want it to be. 

How do you act with power on offense or defense?

The key is being at ease. This happens when you take care of your body and your mind and do your daily drills. When your body is prepared, your mind is calm and clear, and you practice hard every time you go out to the field, the result is feeling confident and empowered because you know you can play your part the best you can.

Take responsibility to be prepared to be your personal best. Leave your personal issues off the field and call me later. I am a trained to help you get through the challenges. Be at ease. Be enthusiastic. You will pack a punch on the field. The star player can't do it without you. You are part of a unit that is effective and powerful when you do your part.

There are a number of champion athletes you can look to for examples of right attitude. Peyton Manning is a great example of a great team player with a wonderful attitude.

The point is this: When you have mastered yourself, you don't have to be defensive or offensive. You are a true champion and a winner, whether the game is won or lost.

Dana Nellen is a performance enhancement specialist, assisting athletes to overcome physical, mental and life challenges that impact sports performance. Visit www.dananellen.com

Dana Nellen. Coaching for Champions: The Nellen Method for Peak Performanceâ„¢. Copyright 2012. All rights reserved.


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