How To Manage Perfectionism In Sports

In “Sessions with Doc,” Dr. Patrick Cohn answers your sports psychology and mental training questions about managing perfectionism in athletes. Visit Peaksports.com and click on contact us to submit your question for Dr. Cohn to answer in his mental game videocast or podcast.

Here’s the question Dr. Cohn answers this week about Overcoming Perfectionism In Sports.

LEAH ASKS:”With my athleticism, training, and my talent, I have super high expectations and I expect to win often. In matches when I make mistakes, I berate myself, get frustrated, and lose focus. Now I expect to do these things in matches, which hurts my confidence. Am I a perfectionist, or am I just being negative with myself during matches?”

Watch the video below to hear what Dr. Cohn has to say to Leah about managing perfectionism in athletes. Don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel to be updated on all our latest videos!

Last Updated on September 8, 2026 by Patrick Cohn

Patrick Cohn

Mental Performance Coach Dr. Patrick Cohn has helped athletes for over 40 years enhance their performance. Dr. Cohn earned a master's degree in sports psychology from CSUF and a Ph.D. from the University of Virginia, specializing in Applied Sports Psychology. Today, he is the president and founder of Peak Performance Sports, LLC in Orlando, Florida. He's working with Olympic athletes, NFL, NHL, MLB, and professional motocross racers and NASCAR racers.

See Full Bio