High expectations in sports articles about sports psychology and mental performance coaching for young athletes and youth coaches.
When athletes have high expectations about what others expect, they feel more pressure to be perfect and not make mistakes. Is everyone telling your how good you can be at sports, but you are not meeting those expectations? Watch this video to understand your own expectations
Do You Worry About What Others Think? Summary: Athletes often feel pressure to prove themselves to coaches, teammates, parents, and fans, seeking validation from others. This focus on external approval can create tension, anxiety, and decreased performance. True mental strength comes from shifting focus inward—playing for yourself, valuing the process over results, and building self-respect. … Sport Psychology Article>>
How the Yips Helped Hayden Hurst Play Summary: Hayden Hurst’s journey illustrates the importance of following your passion in sports. Playing baseball for external reasons led to severe struggles with the yips, but shifting to football, his true passion, allowed him to thrive. Athletes should release expectations, play for themselves, and address mental challenges proactively. … Sport Psychology Article>>
Do You Set Yourself Up to Fail in Triathlons? Summary: High expectations often backfire for triathletes, leading to frustration and lower confidence. While goals are useful for motivation, the key to success lies in focusing on the process rather than obsessing over results. By shifting attention to controllable actions—like transitions, pacing, and in-race adjustments—athletes can … Sport Psychology Article>>
USA Hockey Team’s “Gold Medal Mentality” Summary: In hockey, success isn’t determined solely by talent, speed, or size—it’s mindset that makes the real difference. Athletes who adopt a “gold medal mentality” stay aggressive, focused, and resilient no matter the score, opponent, or pressure. What separates those who succeed and those who fall short of their … Sport Psychology Article>>
How High Expectations Sabotage Mental Game Summary: Excessively high expectations can weigh heavily on athletes, leading to anxiety, reduced confidence, and underperformance. The story of Mark Appel, once considered a “risk-free” MLB draft pick, highlights how unrealistic demands can erode passion and derail potential. “Shoot for the moon… Even if you miss, you’ll land among … Sport Psychology Article>>