Your mental routine can be a "security blanket", something to turn to when under stress or to prevent distraction by the environment. Whether under or over energized, you can use a variety of energy management strategies to obtain you optimal energy level. For example, to increase your energy level you can listen to upbeat music on your CD player or visualize yourself performing. To decrease your energy level, deep breathing exercises or imaging a relaxing scene are useful strategies.
Specific components of your preparation routine, such as your self talk and imagery strategies, should be used to help you focus on important aspects of your performance. Identify words or images that direct your attention where it needs to be such as watching your ball.
Using mental imagery, you can see and feel yourself execute your performance preparing you for the challenge ahead. This can help you review and reinforce what you need to do during competition. One of the best ways to build self-confidence is through performance accomplishments. This can be achieved by using imagery where you can see and feel yourself performing successfully. Such imagery can help you approach competition with the belief that "I can do it."
You can develop and rehearse how you need to focus during various segments of the competition. Instead of assuming you'll be able to focus appropriately, plan in advance how it is best for you to focus. Additionally, develop and rehearse strategies you'll use to refocus if you lose your focus along the way.
Edited 10/01/10
Loaded 10/01/10
Anticipate things that can potentially go wrong and develop a strategy to deal with each of these distractions so it doesn't hurt your performance. In your imagery, experience the competitive environment and include all the positive and negative emotions, feelings and thoughts that typically occur. Then develop a strategy to deal with some of the challenges you may face during the competition
