26 DAYS AGO • 1 MIN READ

Algebra is like Mental Resilience...

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Core Connection

Join 271 other busy parents navigating youth sports. I give you actionable sports psychology tips you can use to help your athlete grow confidence, manage stress, and build resilience in their sports. Join and get 5 free worksheets to start your journey!

🔎Concept Overview

Remember algebra? Yeah, me neither.

Back in school where I was doing it everyday, I used to be pretty darn good at algebra. I knew how to solve for x, factor equations, and graph some things.

Now, if someone put an algebra problem in front of me, I might be able to remember some things.

I think PEMDAS has something to do with algebra...

I wouldn't get very far. I would probably feel like Mr. Incredible in the second Incredibles movie

Since I haven't used it in years, my recall for the knowledge has drastically decreased.

I lost the usefulness once consistent practice stopped.

Mental resilience works the same way.

You have to be practicing it consistently to see the greatest benefits.

If you want your child to:

  • Be confident in their abilities like it's second nature to them
  • Overcome failure and stay positive
  • Stand up for themselves

Then they need to consistently practice mental resilience techniques.

It's not a one and done thing.

Changing your brain to function differently takes time and repetition.

⚒️Action Items

Consistency is key.

Before every game or meet I want you to do a few things with your athlete.

These are NON-NEGOTIABLE

First, have them say some mantras out loud. Depending on what they are struggling with it could sound something like this:

  • I am here to have fun and get better
  • My effort is in my control
  • I belong here
  • One play at a time

These will remind them of what is most important and stop their brains from going down their specific think traps.

Next, go through a quick exercise that takes no longer than a couple minutes.

Some examples include:

  • Asking them to identify 3 things they will focus on that are within their control
  • Have them visualize their best moments in the sport for 30 seconds
  • Do some breathing exercises that slow their heart rate

Each of these quick exercises are powerful tools that can help your athlete prepare mentally for the high pressure moments.

Every game or meet. Without fail. Consistency is KEY.

I know if you do this with them, they will perform better.

They will see it. You will see it. Their coach will see it.

📘Helpful Resources

My virtual library is where you can access past emails or posts to learn more about the different aspects of mental resilience

>>> Access virtual library here

Positivepsychology.com has a great article that gives 17 mental resilience training exercises you can check out below

>>> Check out these mental resilience trainings

Anna Urash

Core Connection

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Core Connection

Join 271 other busy parents navigating youth sports. I give you actionable sports psychology tips you can use to help your athlete grow confidence, manage stress, and build resilience in their sports. Join and get 5 free worksheets to start your journey!