112 How to Deal with Physical Insecurities as a Young Athlete
Episode description
In this solo episode, I discuss a challenge that many young athletes often come across and something that we get approached by parents and the athlete themselves about on a regular basis. Dealing with physical insecurities. I go on to share some exercises, that I often use citing a case study of Harry (pseudonym) the goalkeeper who was small for his position, which impacted his focus and confidence.
Key Learning Points
- By helping shift an athletes focus towards internal factors that he or she can control can help them feel less helpless.
- Examining an athletes expectations of small details in their sport can help you shift their perspective.
- Setting mini-goals between sessions is a great way to strengthen an athletes confidence and motivation levels.
- Spending time assessing an athlete’s strengths and planning how to improve specific areas can be a great confidence builder.
- Relationships and the way athletes communicate with coaches is important and vice versa, can have a significant impact on how an athlete feels.
- Using metaphors such as an animal or a superhero in a visual way can enhance confidence.
Connect with David Charlton
Download THE FOCUSED ATHLETE CHECKLIST
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Relevant Podcast Episodes
Ep039: John Fletcher – How to Develop Fearless Athletes
Ep49: James Maurice - How Does Sport Psychology in Elite Football Academies Help
Ep064: Edu Rubio – How to Support Young Footballers
Ep081: Stuart Wade – Mental Toughness in Combat Sports
Ep111: Michael Caulfield - How to be an Effective Sports Psychologist in Elite Professional Football
Relevant Blogs and Resources
Case Study: Supporting a Young Footballer to Overcome His Fears
Blog: How to Help Children Overcome Fear of Failure
Blog: How do I Help my Child to Focus in Sports?