Is it the right time to start learning about mental training? Should my athlete daughter be doing it in her off-season? What if she’s injured?

I get these questions a lot. Parents are now realizing that athletes need mental training. They need to learn how to harness the power of their mind — how to come back from a miss, or a mistake. And if you’re wondering when 'mental training' fits into your daughter's athletic career, this episode is for you.

What is mental training?

Mental training is using the mind to leverage performance. This is the ability of an athlete to train her thoughts, behaviors, and actions, as well as navigate any situation that she comes up against. 

This control empowers athletes to have confidence in whatever situation they face. It’s a big part to reach their elite performance. And it is only achieved through knowledge of the sport. If the mental skills are on a zero, she's never going to be able to perform at the level she wants to.

Equip her and set her up for success by giving her the tools she needs to achieve her goals AND your wishes for her happiness/confidence. These mental training skills are important especially if she has goals to get better or level up. The earlier she gets it, the better. 

The best time to repair a roof is always when it's sunny! 

All moms want what’s best for their daughters. If you think your daughter needs these important mental skills, then mental training is a must. It’s non-negotiable for elite performance. For your athlete to reach her potential, she has to have her mind on board. 

To know if she’s ready, ask these questions:

• How old is she? If she's between the ages of 11 to 16, she should consider being in a program that teaches the mental skills of the sport. 
• What season is she in? Whether she’s in-season, off-season, or injured, you can’t go wrong with this.
• What are her goals? If you know what their goal is then you’ll have an idea of how to offer help. Ask them. Athletes always have their goals. 

*If you are wondering how you can bring this up to your daughter, we have a few resources for you! 

Ep. 37: What Age Should Your Athlete Daughter Start Mental Training?

Ep. 38: How to Get Your Daughter to "Buy In" to Mental Training

Ep. 39: Athlete Special: Your Mental Game = Your Biggest Competitive Advantage

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