Psychwrite #14: Date: 1 pt Copy question: 1 pt Answer (in at least 3-5 lines): 3 pts Describe an example of when focus might be absolutely imperative for success in your sport/performance area.
Focus Controlling Distractions Routines The Zone Focus Factors Focus Controlling Distractions Routines The Zone Focus Pre-Test http://sportpsychschool.com/students/bychaptfiles/8.focus/index.htm
What is Focus? “My thoughts before a race are usually pretty simple. I tell myself: Get out of the blocks, run your race, stay relaxed. If you run your race, you will win … channel your energy. Focus.” Carl Lewis (10 time Olympic medalist)
Possible Consequences for Losing Focus Choking Performing below your ability level Experiencing fear, panic, or anxiety Getting “psyched out”
Focus is Concentration Paying attention to ONE thing Not being distracted Concentration for the duration of the competition 10 seconds 1 hour 3 hours Become totally absorbed, blocking out all other distractions
Selective attention Selectively concentrating on one aspect of the environment while ignoring other things Consequence? Inattentional blindness: “Do the test” http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ahg6qcgoay4 Change blindness http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dwDgWPUUltg Darren Brown Good focus means you are in the right mental TIME and the right mental PLACE.
The Right Time How do you handle disruptions? Mind must only exist in the NOW If you make a mistake … Present Moment-to-Moment Right Time How do you handle disruptions? Roger Federer & the ball girl http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aUmddROSrXg Swiss tennis player, one of the best tennis players of all time.
The Right Place http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=56syKDjxgLw Mind must only exist HERE Ignore distractions Crowd Friends Boy/Girlfriend School Work Family Control your eyes and ears http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=56syKDjxgLw Let’s Practice!
Stay in the HERE and NOW! Handout-Ways to Improve Focus when: not in performance setting in your performance setting you need to regain your focus Assignment: Focus Log
Focus…Zero in
Focus Drills When listening to someone speak, try to clear your mind of everything and connect fully with what the person is saying. Do this for short periods, then gradually increase the time. What did you do for….?
Focus drills Work on holding your focus on something (looking at on object) for short periods, then gradually increase the time.
Write a reflection on your notecard about your experience. What did you learn, review, or realize today? How can this connect to your sport/performance area?