112 How to Deal with Physical Insecurities as a Young Athlete

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.

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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?

Child and Youth Motivation for Sport Quiz

Sport Psychology Resources for Children and Parents