027 | MANAGING PERFORMANCE ANXIETY

IF IT MAKES YOU NERVOUS, YOU ARE DOING IT RIGHT.

If you’re like many people, you’ve experienced some level of nervousness or anxiety when it comes to social situations. The same can be true when it comes to playing soccer. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned veteran, nerves can often get the best of us when we’re on the field. Fortunately, there are a few ways that you can manage your nerves and help yourself to play your best.

First of all, it’s important to note that everyone experiences nerves before a game. It’s a natural and healthy reaction to any competitive situation. So, don’t beat yourself up if you’re feeling a bit nervous. Instead, take a few moments to focus on your breathing and get yourself in the right frame of mind.

You can better manage your nerves by simply focusing on the positives. Instead of feeling paralyzed by the potential of making a mistake, think about how you feel when you do well on the field. Visualize yourself performing specific actions that will lead to success. Focusing on the things you can control can help to boost your confidence and keep your nerves in check.

Most importantly, remember that soccer is a team sport. Working together with your teammates can help take some of the pressure away and make it easier to stay in the moment.