🔎Concept Overview

The "me" thinking trap

Ever catch yourself saying "It must be ME" when things go wrong? You're not alone!

The "me" thinking trap is a sneaky little monster that convinces us we're the center of all problems.

A teammate of your child makes a mistake and your kid tells you that it was their fault because it wasn't the best pass.

If your athlete blames themselves when there are multiple other factors, they are in the "me" thinking trap.

This thinking trap is particularly dangerous for young athletes who are already navigating a world of perfection and performance.

⚒️Action Items

Here’s how to help your athlete escape this thinking trap:

1. Question the evidence! Ask “What actually happened?” not “How did I mess up?” Facts over feelings, always.
2. Widen the lens. Most situations have multiple factors - equipment, timing, preparation, coaching, environment. It’s rarely JUST about one person.
3. Identify what parts are ACTUALLY in their control versus what’s not. Focus energy there!

When athletes get stuck in the “me” trap, they start performing for approval rather than improvement.

They hide mistakes instead of learning from them.

They play safe instead of reaching for growth.

📘Helpful Resources

Learn about other thinking traps

• ​https://www.thechelseapsychologyclinic.com/mood-management/thinking-traps/​