The Perfectionist Athlete

Listed below are some areas in which characteristics of a perfectionist athlete may be shown in:

Fear of Failure
Fear of Embarrassment
Fear of others' judgments
Fear of Letting Others Down
Fear of Making mistakes
Fear of wasted energy or time
Fear of Losing respect from others
Fear of not reaching expectations

Practice
Great Practice Player
Hard Worker
High Motivation
Practice Confidence
Loves to Train
Very Coachable

Mental Game
Tries to be perfect
High Expectations
Lack of Confidence in games
Lack of trust in competition
Wants to look and feel good
Fear of making mistakes
Tries too hard - tension

Competition
Tentative performer
Too focused on others
Afraid to take risks
Feels anxious or tense
Frustrated with mistakes
Can't perform in the present

Perfectionists are hard enough on themselves; they don't need their parents reminding them how to improve their technique or try harder. In fact, what they need is permission to perform or play at a more instinctive level or with less thinking. Over thinking is what makes these athletes anxious and tentative. Also, it would be most beneficial for these athletes to learn that making mistakes is a part of every athlete's career. So if you or if you know an athlete of this nature be positive and encouraging; never be over critical.

For more information check out these podcasts: http://www.peaksportsnetwork.com/public/department47.cfm

Music and Sport

Music, it can be a "cure-all" in your athletic lifestyle. Music can assist you in altering the mood your in. It can pump you up or make you relaxed and focused. You know yourself best, so pick music that will best suit you and the mood your "zone" your trying to get into prior to a competition. By the time you take the headphones off, you should have a strong sense of confidence and belief in yourself!