Do Expectations Help Performance? - November 2023
Expectations and goals are not the same. Expectations can introduce pressure, shift the focus to outcomes, and undermine self-confidence.
Gymnasts often hold high expectations. These range from specific outcome goals to beliefs about how their performance should look and feel. For example, a gymnast may expect always to score above a 9.0 or consistently secure a place on the podium. Additionally, they may carry expectations about the perfection of their performance and what others expect from them.
Gymnasts need to remove these expectations and replace them with manageable objectives. If a gymnast expects a particular score, you can guide them to redirect their attention toward specific mental cues.
As the gymnastics season approaches, it's time to urge athletes to let go of rigid expectations and shift their focus toward objectives and process-oriented goals.
If you or your gymnast would like more support, check out my coaching services on my website.
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