Sometimes the greatest enemy we compete against during competition is not our opponent, but the thoughts bouncing around in our own mind. I would dare say that when you look back at your best performances and your worst performances, the biggest difference between the two was the variation in the way you talked to yourself. Quite simply, when you performed well you had good thoughts and you were not critical of your performance. Conversely, when you didn’t perform well you had more negative thoughts and your inner voice was very critical of your performance. It is important to remember that having these thoughts is normal; every athlete has them. However, it’s how you respond to them that ultimately will determine the quality of your performance.

Step 1: Become aware of the inner voice.

1. “Don’t walk this guy”

Step 2: Step away

1. Disengage from moment. Step off the rubber.

Step 3: Breathe

1. Step behind the mound – take a long slow deep breathe- in through the nose, out through the mouth.

Step 4: Use Positive Anchor statements to replace critical thought

1. “Throw a good low strike”

Step 5: Get back on the mound

Step 6: Repeat when needed.