Building self-confidence in athletes

Pages:372-374
V. Subramanyam (Department of Psychology, Sports Authority of India, Netaji Subhas Southern Centre, Bangalore)

Developing self confidence is paramount significance in order for sports persons to attain self confidence and achieve optimal / peak performance. Low self confidence can be altered through training that focuses on the role of confidence in our behavior. Self confidence concerned with accumulation of the athletes unique experiences in achieving many different things which results in the specific expectations. It is a vital part of athletic part of personality and something others quickly recognize about him or her. This article delineates the five steps involved in the developing confidence of the sports person. The developing stages involve identifying fears (first step) followed by master fear (second step) to be provided with how to master fears. Employing goal mapping involve in third step where athletes have used goal setting as a way to increase self-confidence and boost self-esteem. The next stage includes boosting belief in athlete’s ability. The final stage involves mastering confidence challenge, well preparation, and staying positive.