How to Play With Confidence in Baseball
Do you play with confidence?
Do you start a game with confidence?
Do you easily lose confidence after a mistake?
Confidence is the belief in your ability to perform as an athlete and execute your responsibilities on the field.
The St. Louis Cardinals swept the Chicago Cubs in their latest match up at Busch Stadium. Two of those games ended in an extra-inning, walk-off homeruns.
The Cardinals enjoy playing the Cubs, it seems to always be a battle, and they like that.
In the last game of the series, three of the Cardinals’ top players were out with injuries. The team didn’t allow those unfortunate occurrences to take control of their confidence.
They were coming off a W from the night before and ahead in the series, 2-0. They were feeling pretty good to say the least. The belief in their ability was high, even in the face of misfortune.
After the 14-inning W, and series sweep, Wong said this about the Cardinals’ mindset:
“We’re always going up there trying to make something happen, trying to have good at-bats and to do something. Obviously, we’re not going to win every game, but we’re not going to give up any game.”
The Cardinals had an unwavering confidence in the series against the Cubs, and they plan to play that way for the rest of the season.
I often get asked the questions:
- “How do I play with confidence?”
- “How do I play with confidence the whole time?”
I (Dr. Megan) played travel softball with a girl once who was big hitter.
She was so skilled and hit bombs all the time. She also struck out quite a bit… swinging for the fence too much, possibly.
However, each time she struck out she would come back to the dugout with a calm smile on her face. One day I asked her why she always smiles after she strikes out. She told me:
“I know I’m one at-bat closer to my next big hit.”
I was baffled; I thought, “What confidence!”
Later, I learned that was initially Babe Ruth’s philosophy. Nonetheless, she used it and was one of the most confident athletes I’ve ever played with.
So, how do you play with confidence?
Start a game with confidence. Believe in your ability and the skills you have TODAY.
Stay confident through mistakes, like a strikeout.
Tell yourself you’re a good player and even the best strikeout.
You control your confidence.
Adopt Babe Ruth and my former teammate’s mindset: smile in the face of adversity.
Be the same player after a mistake and after a success. Your confidence depends on it.
Related Sports Psychology Articles
- Boost Confidence via Preparation – De La Cruz
- Be the Driver of Your Confidence
- How to Build Steadfast Self-Confidence as a Ball Player
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