How Do You Deal w/ Self Doubt? – The Mental Game of Baseball

Short Summary

1. The speaker discusses their struggles with self-doubt and the pressure to please others during their baseball career.
2. Initially, baseball brought joy, but progressing to higher levels turned it into a job, leading to anxiety and loss of passion.
3. The pressure to perform created a “have to” mindset, restricting their ability to play freely and effectively.
4. They emphasize the importance of finding a “flow state” for performance without conscious thought, relying on preparation instead.
5. Confidence can stem from consistent success, external validation, or physical and mental preparation.
6. Mental preparation, including breathwork and calming techniques, is crucial as baseball is predominantly a mental game.
7. The speaker encourages focusing on personal preparation and trusting one’s abilities rather than seeking external affirmations.
8. They highlight the mental aspects of baseball and the often-overlooked need for intentional mental practice.
9. Accepting self-doubt and other emotions like pressure and nervousness is essential for athletes.
10. Maintaining a love for the game serves as a foundation for positive performance and helps prevent emotional highs and lows based on outcomes.