CHAPTER 7 Distraction Control Flashcards
What mental skill distinguishes great athletes and performers?
The ability to adapt, refocus, and stay positive and focused in the face of distractions.
What is essential for performing near your best consistently?
Mastering the critical skill of distraction control through positive focus planning and regular practice.
What does ‘heart in champions’ refer to?
The depth of motivation and how well one reacts to pressure under maximum pain and stress.
What must athletes learn to sustain in the face of distractions?
Their best focus.
List some sources of distractions in sports.
- Winning
- Losing
- Expectations from self and others
- Teammates
- Coaches
- Competitors
- Officials
- Media
- Management
- Sponsors
- Financial and educational concerns
- Changes in performance level
- Changes in familiar patterns
True or False: You must let distractions affect your performance.
False.
What is your choice regarding distractions?
You decide whether to let distractions upset you or interfere with your performance.
What happens when you react emotionally to distractions?
You defeat yourself and lose focus.
How can you manage stress effectively?
By ensuring additional rest and engaging in relaxing activities.
What should you focus on during major competitions?
Doing what helps you stay positive and in control.
What is a critical step to managing distractions?
Commit yourself to remaining positive.
Fill in the blank: Your focus dictates whether something becomes a ______ for you.
[distraction]
What are the three simple steps to self-initiated positive change?
- Create a vision
- Form a plan
- Make a decision to act on the plan
What should you do when facing a potential distraction?
Stay positive, focused, and in control.
What is the purpose of a distraction control plan?
To help you pinpoint distractions and reminders for dealing effectively with them.
In the distraction control plan, what should be listed in the first column?
Major distractions or refocusing situations faced in the past or likely to face in the future.
What is an effective real-world refocusing reminder?
Breathe, relax.
True or False: You have no control over your focus.
False.
What should you focus on to perform well, regardless of circumstances?
Your preparation and what is within your immediate control.
What can help you deal better with stress or distractions?
Imagining a protective bubble or force field.
What is a preferred response to distractions in the distraction control plan?
Indicate how you would prefer to respond in each situation.
What should you do after facing a distracting situation?
Draw out the positive lessons and start fresh the next day.
What should you do after taking a long, slow, deep breath out?
Shift to a focus reminder that has personal meaning for you
Examples include: Breathe, relax; Focus, focus, focus; Let it go and focus on the next step.
What is the goal after creating a refocusing plan?
Act on your plan and practice responding effectively to distractions
Use opportunities to fine-tune your skills for focusing and refocusing.
