Perception Focus & why it is importantYour perception focus is where you direct your attention at any given moment. For example, if you are lining up for the next play but still thinking about the last one, your perception focus would be in the past. On the other hand, if you are thinking about where to line up for the next immediate play, your focus would be on the present, and if you were thinking too far ahead (like where on the field you want to go when the ball is snapped) your focus would be future-oriented (Mind of Steel).We regularly change our perception focus all the time, but the key is to maintain a healthy, positive focus rather than dwelling on things that have already happened and cannot be changed. Think about it – how many times have you caught yourself thinking about the last play and not prepared for the next play?In my experience, I tend to see more athletes have difficulty letting go of the last play (and having a past-focus orientation), usually resulting in another bad play. Rather than quickly move on from the mistake, the athlete ponders over it, leaving himself unprepared for the next play. Developing a present-focus is a really important skill, and by mastering it you will see your sports performance dramatically improve.Why Perception Focus worksPerception focus works because by keeping a present/future orientation you will know what you need to do, where you need to be, and any other critical information pertinent to your position. In some instances you will need to think about what you need to do in the moment, while in other situations you may need to think ahead at what you will need to do in a few moments (future-orientation). Usually dwelling on the past is not ideal, as it leaves you wide open for mistakes, bad plays, and even injuries.How to use Perception FocusThink about where your focus is during games and practices – are you “in the game?” If you find that your focus is off, how can you re-establish your mental toughness and maintain a positive and relevant focus? Have you tried using a cue word to help? Developing a performance improvement plan is the best place to start.For many athletes, the tendency is to focus on the slump, and therefore emotions typically go down, as does confidence. Rather than think about what has already happened, try thinking about what you need to do in order to break the slump!Past-focus can be helpful on occasion. For example, if you are having a real tough day, it may help to take a moment and think about the great game you had earlier in the week to help life your spirits. As you begin to feel better, quickly change your focus back to the present and take that positive energy with you thought the rest of the game!www.drstankovich.com
