Maintaining Equilibrium

Adversity is everyone's companion. The unexpected arises without warning. Successful student-athletes prepare.

First, avoid self-induced adversity. Don't blow yourself up. How? 

• Take care of your 'academic' business. Thrive don't survive. 
• Set the standard at practice; punctuality and effort drive performance. 
• Follow all team rules - including chemical health. 
• Take care of yourself - hydration, sleep, nutrition, recovery. The first sign of dehydration isn't thirst, it's fatigue. 

Prepare psychologically for adversity. 

• Injury can happen. Maintain strength and conditioning.
• Respiratory illnesses are always around. Immunizations are between your family and your doctor. 
• Players have slumps. Believe in yourself. 
• Mindfulness helps focus, anxiety, depression, and reduces circulating stress hormones. 
• Volleyball is a game of momentum. Focus helps prevent negative runs. Commit to a "next play" mentality. 

Every competitor experiences butterflies, because they care. Adrenaline drives feeling nervous, making you quicker and stronger. 

Every player has hiccups during a match. In "Golf Is Not a Game of Perfect," Dr. Bob Rotella shares that top pros expect six to seven "bad shots" a round. They're ready to move on. One of the lessons learned from Stoicism is that you can't control what happens to you but can control your response. Do not allow the last play to interfere with your execution this play. 

Three mistakes players can make are:

1) Deviating from the present, contemplating victory.

2) Thinking about body mechanics and tempo instead of playing.

3) Becoming hyperaggressive.

"Run your race."

Be a goldfish.