Mental performance coaching

We firmly believe that psychological safety is essential for creating sustained high performance in a work and sports environment. In previous articles, we discussed the psychological safety in the workplace. In this article, we will tackle aspects of psychological safety in the world of sports.

Pressure is a transformative force in sports, acknowledged by athletes for its profound impact on performance during critical competition moments. Recognizing and managing this pressure is imperative, as neglecting it intensifies its effects and hinders peak performance. This blog seeks to explore the nature of pressure, its origins, and strategies for athletes to optimize their performance under its influence, aiming for success and excellence.

Athletes often receive a lot of attention for their abilities after thrilling events such as the US Open. However, there is more to their success than meets the eye. Take Novak Djokovic, for example. Apart from his skills, Djokovic’s ability to effortlessly transition between intense focus and relaxation is truly captivating. It provides us with a glimpse into the world of endurance and resilience. In this article, we will explore the concept of "switching.” The seamless shifting between heightened concentration and a relaxed state. And how crucial it is in maintaining peak performance. We'll delve into strategies that athletes use, including mindfulness and visualization, to effectively train their minds to stay at the top of their game.

In the realm of sports, there is a growing recognition of the significance of well-being and preparedness. However, despite this increasing awareness, many athletes hesitate to discuss their collaboration with mental performance coaches. A belief exists that seeking guidance from coaches may be perceived as a display of weakness or vulnerability. That couldn't be further from reality!

The world of high-performance sports is full of stories of unwavering determination, disciplined routines, and awe-inspiring athleticism. It's a domain where every fiber of one's being, every ounce of sweat, and every hour of practice comes together to create moments of triumph However, those involved in this arena often ponder, "Is training the foundation for exceptional performance?"

In the world of sports, a player's value is often measured by their skill, performance, and physical abilities. Yet, an essential factor plays a significant role in determining a player's worth—attitude.

Mental performance coaching, also known as sports psychology or peak performance coaching, has become increasingly popular in recent years, with athletes, business professionals, and performers seeking out these services to improve their mental toughness and achieve their goals. The question is, does it work?

Mental performance coaching involves helping individuals to enhance their cognitive, mental, emotional, and behavioral skills for improved performance in a specific area or domain, such as sports, academics, business, and personal life. It involves using evidence-based techniques from sports psychology, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and positive psychology to help individuals improve their focus, motivation, confidence, resilience, and overall mental state.

Mental performance coaching has become essential to soccer in recent years. It involves using various techniques and strategies to help players optimize their cognitive skills and overcome any psychological barriers limiting their performance on the field.

At the age of thirty-five, I became one of the youngest managing directors at UBS Bank in Switzerland. I compared my career to that of a professional athlete and looked for external help when I felt that I was not on top of my game.

Successful entrepreneurs, executives, and sports stars all have in common that they possess solid mental skills. Like any other skills, these can be trained, developed, and reinforced. 

Although understated by the media, attitude exists as a foundational mental construct in elite athletic performance. Sporting achievements remain impossible if the attitude is anything less than positive.