264 How to Enhance Focus, Motivation and Confidence

Demystifying Mental Toughness

Join David @ The Sports Psychology Hub

40:54

Taxes, Voting, Recycling—oh my! After navigating this jungle of grown-up responsibilities together, we're taking a quick summer breather to recharge our adulting batteries. But before we temporarily hang up our responsible pants, join us for this special episode packed with our favorite kernels of wisdom from the season so far AND get an exclusive preview of the fresh adulting adventures awaiting you when Grown-Up Stuff returns in late summer! Think of this episode as your adulting victory lap—complete with confetti and zero paperwork required! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…

about a year ago 13:26

MP3•Episode home

In today’s episode, part 3 of David’s investigation into ChatGPT’s and its response to the question “What Can I Expect When Working With A Sport Psychologist” he goes on to share with you some helpful tools that you can help athletes in this context.

Key Learning Points:

Enhancing focus is a skill that can be developed by understanding aspects that are out of your control and to be able to shift your attention purposefully on helpful things/processes that are within your control.
A great question to aid your motivation is to go back to the question from time to time – Why do I play my sport?
To maintain steady levels of confidence, recognising where you gain confidence from is key.

Connect with David Charlton

Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIN

To Listen to Related Podcasts To Help You Improve Your Understanding of Sports Psychology

Ep261: David Charlton - Why Are The Sporting Goals That You Set Yourself Not Helping You

Ep260 - David Charlton - What Can I Expect When Working With A Sport Psychologist

Ep160: Brian Hemmings – Golf Psychology: What You Can Expect and Why It Can Help You

Ep146: John Nassoori – What Is The Role Of A Sports Psychologist In Football?

Ep111: Michael Caulfield – How to be an Effective Sports Psychologist in Elite Professional Football

Relevant Blogs And Resources To Help You Enhance Focus, Motivation and Confidence

Motivation for Sport Quiz

Download THE FOCUSED ATHLETE CHECKLIST

Performance Profile for Long Term Goals

Performance Profiling: When You’re Looking For A Quick Boost

Handout: Marginal Gains Refining Your Approach

293 episodes

264 How to Enhance Focus, Motivation and Confidence

Demystifying Mental Toughness

0-10 subscribers

published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

Key Learning Points:

Enhancing focus is a skill that can be developed by understanding aspects that are out of your control and to be able to shift your attention purposefully on helpful things/processes that are within your control.
A great question to aid your motivation is to go back to the question from time to time – Why do I play my sport?
To maintain steady levels of confidence, recognising where you gain confidence from is key.

Connect with David Charlton

Join David @ The Sports Psychology Hub

Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIN

To Listen to Related Podcasts To Help You Improve Your Understanding of Sports Psychology

Ep261: David Charlton - Why Are The Sporting Goals That You Set Yourself Not Helping You

Ep260 - David Charlton - What Can I Expect When Working With A Sport Psychologist

Ep160: Brian Hemmings – Golf Psychology: What You Can Expect and Why It Can Help You

Ep146: John Nassoori – What Is The Role Of A Sports Psychologist In Football?

Ep111: Michael Caulfield – How to be an Effective Sports Psychologist in Elite Professional Football

Relevant Blogs And Resources To Help You Enhance Focus, Motivation and Confidence

Motivation for Sport Quiz

Download THE FOCUSED ATHLETE CHECKLIST

Performance Profile for Long Term Goals

Performance Profiling: When You’re Looking For A Quick Boost

Handout: Marginal Gains Refining Your Approach

293 episodes

All episodes

Demystifying Mental Toughness

1
292 Breaking Barriers in Sport: Culture and Inclusion in India & the Middle East 20:45

1 day ago20:45

20:45

Today’s episode is the second part of my discussion with Gayatri Bhushan, co-founder of Mind Matter Performance. We go onto continue to explore the importance of being curious and open to learn about the experiences of others in sport. Gayatri goes onto share further insights from India and the Middle East, where cultural, social, and gender barriers can put limits on opportunities for different athletes, participants and coaches. Key Learning Points: · The discussion highlighted the significant impact of Premier League Football in India, with personal stories illustrating the feeling of belonging that fans can feel. · Challenges in sports accessibility in India are apparent, including socio-economic barriers, gender disparities, and cultural norms. · Sunil Chhetri's unfulfilled potential due to bureaucratic hurdles, underscored questionable policies and procedures. · Sport can transform the lives of families. Connect with Gayatri Bhushan Mind Matter Performance Website Connect with David Charlton The Mental Edge with David Charlton Instagram LinkedIN Podcast Episodes To Encourage A Positive Sporting Experience For All Athletes and Participants Ep291: Gayatri Bhushan - From India to the Premier League, Sport Psychology, Belonging & Barriers Ep290: Gordon MacLelland - Stop Focusing On Results: Developing Life Skills Through Sport Ep287: Duncan O’Brien - Is A Blame Culture In Team Sports Helpful For Performance? Ep286: Nathan Sherratt - How To Understand Neurodiversity Better In Football Refereeing Ep285: Adam Batstone - Football Coaches: How To Help Neurodiverse Players Thrive Other Valuable Resources To Encourage A Positive Sporting Experience Podcasts for Sport Coach Development Cricket Psychology Resources Hockey Psychology Resources Rugby Psychology Resources Soccer Psychology Resources…

Demystifying Mental Toughness

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291 From India to the Premier League: Sport Psychology, Belonging & Barriers in Global Sport 25:02

9 days ago25:02

25:02

Join us for an inspiring episode as we welcome Gayatri Bhushan, HCPC-registered Sport and Exercise Psychologist, who shares her deeply personal journey into the world of sports psychology. Born in India and now based in New Delhi, Gayatri reflects on her early years as a national-level 400-metre athlete and the pivotal challenges she faced, from performance pressures to the lack of mental health support. Her story of searching for guidance—often in vain—sparked a passion for ensuring no athlete is left without support, especially young girls navigating the complex intersection of sport and well-being. Having studied at Loughborough University and worked with Premier League clubs in London, Gayatri discusses the profound impact of being immersed in diverse sporting environments. She highlights the crucial role of equality, diversity, and inclusion in building mental toughness, emphasising that access to psychological support should not be a privilege but a right for all athletes. Tune in to gain insight into the challenges, learnings, and the ongoing journey toward a more inclusive and resilient sporting world. Key Learning Points: · The implementation of regulations and standards to protect the title of Sport Psychologist in India is important. · Advocate for more inclusive and diverse staffing policies in sports organisations to improve relatability and representation. · Encourage athletes to be comfortable in their own skin and not suppress their emotions and cultural identity. Connect with Gayatri Bhushan Mind Matter Performance Website Connect with David Charlton The Mental Edge with David Charlton Instagram LinkedIN Podcast Episodes To Encourage A Positive Sporting Experience For All Athletes and Participants Ep290: Gordon MacLelland - Stop Focusing On Results: Developing Life Skills Through Sport Ep287: Duncan O’Brien - Is A Blame Culture In Team Sports Helpful For Performance? Ep286: Nathan Sherratt - How To Understand Neurodiversity Better In Football Refereeing Ep285: Adam Batstone - Football Coaches: How To Help Neurodiverse Players Thrive Ep065: Dr Amy Izycky – Encouraging Mentally Healthy Cultures in Sport Other Valuable Resources To Encourage A Positive Sporting Experience Podcasts for Sport Coach Development Cricket Psychology Resources Hockey Psychology Resources Rugby Psychology Resources Soccer Psychology Resources…

Demystifying Mental Toughness

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290 Stop Focusing On Results: Developing Life Skills Through Sport 22:18

16 days ago22:18

22:18

In the second part of a dialog with Parents in Sport founder, Gordon MacLelland, the conversation goes onto discuss the importance of resilience and normalising failure in sports when communicating with children. Such discussions between parents, coaches and children can help kids develop positive coping mechanisms. David and Gordon also touched on the potential risks of early specialisation in sports at a young age, such as burnout, overuse injuries and the potential to drop out from the sport altogether. The benefits of diversifying sports participation and the importance of developing multifaceted kids were also talked about. Key Learning Points: · Seek to focus on long-term development, such as aspects of mental toughness and resilience, rather than just results and outcomes. · Get to know yourself as a parent as well as your child, seeking to improve your self-awareness. · Understand what burnout in sport symptoms are for your children. · Encourage regular check-ins between coaches/organisations and parents to manage expectations. · Explore ways to better support and train coaches and volunteers in sports clubs to have more effective conversations with parents. Connect with Gordon MacLelland Parents In Sport Website Connect with David Charlton Join David @ The Sports Psychology Hub Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and LinkedIN Useful Youth Sport Psychology Resource Youth Sport Motivation Checklist Parental Sport Motivation Checklist Podcast Episodes To Encourage A Positive Sporting Experience For Children Ep289: Gordon MacLelland – How To Support Children To Enjoy A Positive Relationship With Sport Ep288: Duncan O’Brien - How To Overcome Intense Emotions From Football Ep285: Adam Batstone - Football Coaches: How To Help Neurodiverse Players Thrive Ep280: Colm O'Donoghue - How To Help A Young Golfer Who Struggles Playing Strokeplay Ep279: Ger Fitzgerald - How To Help A Young Cricketer Overcome Selection Difficulties Relevant Resources To Encourage A Positive Sporting Experience For Children Blog – 5 Ways to Create a Psychological Safe Sporting Environment Blog - 9 Tips for Children from Olympians Blog - 5 Tips for Parents to Help their Children Perform with Confidence Blog – How to Help Young Footballers Find the Zone Blog – How do You Give a Young Golfer Self Confidence Youth Sports Psychology Library – For Parents Stuart Brown PHD – Play: How it shapes the brain, opens the imagination and invigorates the soul Susan Jackson, Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi – Flow In Sports…

Demystifying Mental Toughness

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289 How To Support Children To Enjoy A Positive Relationship With Sport 23:36

23 days ago23:36

23:36

In episode 289 of Demystifying Mental Toughness, the founder of Parents in Sport, Gordon MacLelland, shared his journey from having a promising sports career, to coaching and teaching to supporting parenting in sports. He emphasized the importance of understanding individual children's motivations when considering their sporting experience. Also highlighted were the challenges of balancing fun and competitive pressures. The conversation underscored the importance of self-awareness as a parent and being an intentional in the love and support that you offer your children, as a parent in sports, whilst accepting that you and your child are human. Additionally, David and Gordon stress the benefits of participating in sports on child’s character and mental toughness development, over winning, and the need for realistic expectations. Key Learning Points: · Understand your child's motivations for playing sports and why they do it. · Have regular check-ins with your child to understand how their motivations may change over time. · Avoid asking questions like "Did you win?" or "Were you the best?" and instead focus on character traits with questions such as “When were you brave?” or statements “I noticed how you bounced back positively after your team lost the first goal by the way you were calling for the ball. · Be mindful of the timing and approach when having difficult conversations with your child about their sports performance. · Recognize that success in sports should not be solely defined by performance outcomes, and focus on the wider benefits of participation. Connect with Gordon MacLelland Parents In Sport Website Connect with David Charlton Join David @ The Sports Psychology Hub Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and LinkedIN Useful Youth Sport Psychology Resource Youth Sport Motivation Checklist Parental Sport Motivation Checklist Podcast Episodes To Encourage A Positive Sporting Experience For Children Ep288: Duncan O’Brien - How To Overcome Intense Emotions From Football Ep285: Adam Batstone - Football Coaches: How To Help Neurodiverse Players Thrive Ep280: Colm O'Donoghue - How To Help A Young Golfer Who Struggles Playing Strokeplay Ep279: Ger Fitzgerald - How To Help A Young Cricketer Overcome Selection Difficulties Ep233: David Charlton - How To Help A Young Footballer Overcome Fear Relevant Resources To Encourage A Positive Sporting Experience For Children Blog – 5 Ways to Create a Psychological Safe Sporting Environment Blog - 9 Tips for Children from Olympians Blog - 5 Tips for Parents to Help their Children Perform with Confidence Blog – How to Help Young Footballers Find the Zone Blog – How do You Give a Young Golfer Self Confidence Youth Sports Psychology Library – For Parents…

Demystifying Mental Toughness

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288 How To Overcome Intense Emotions From Football 33:34

30 days ago33:34

33:34

In a continuation of last week’s conversation, David Charlton and Duncan O'Brien discuss the impact of shame on athletes, particularly footballers. Self-esteem, the self-recognition of multiple-selves and self-compassion are also features of the conversation. They go on to discuss the impact of poor performances on an athletes’ mood. Solutions to shift perspective are discussed to aid the understanding of sport coaches and parents to support athletes effectively. They also touch on other strong emotions, such as anger and how to harness it. Key Learning Points: · Explore ways to normalise emotions and have open conversations about them. · Developing an openness to learn more about yourself, your athletes or children is vital. · Understanding and connect with the state of being at you best can transform your mindset. · Potential dynamics where an athletic identity can become entangled with self-esteem and confidence resulting in negative mental health implications should be considered. · Athletes should be aware of their own triggers and to have strategies for managing anger effectively. Connect with Duncan O’Brien LinkedIN Connect with David Charlton Join David @ The Sports Psychology Hub Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and LinkedIN Podcast Episodes To Encourage A Positive Sporting Experience Ep287: Duncan O’Brien - Is A Blame Culture In Team Sports Helpful For Performance? Ep286: Nathan Sherratt - How To Understand Neurodiversity Better In Football Refereeing Ep285: Adam Batstone - Football Coaches: How To Help Neurodiverse Players Thrive Ep249: Dr Edward Hall – Understanding Workplace Collaboration In Coaching In Team Sports Ep105: Hannah Bromley – Overcoming Psychological Challenges in Professional Women’s Football Other Valuable Resources To Encourage A Positive Sporting Experience Podcasts for Sport Coach Development Cricket Psychology Resources Hockey Psychology Resources Rugby Psychology Resources Soccer Psychology Resources…

Demystifying Mental Toughness

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287 Is A Blame Culture In Team Sports Helpful For Performance? 25:09

5 weeks ago25:09

25:09

David Charlton and Duncan O'Brien discuss the emotional challenges in football, focusing on blame, shame, guilt, and anger in this week’s episode of Demystifying Mental Toughness. Duncan, influenced by Brene Brown's work, emphasizes the importance of vulnerability and collaboration in coaching. He highlights the need for coaches to create supportive yet challenging environments, using tools like Clean Language to foster self-awareness and resilience. They explore how emotions like shame can manifest in players, affecting their performance and behaviour. The conversation underscores the significance of coaches communicating effectively and setting clear expectations to help players navigate stress and criticism, ultimately fostering a more supportive and effective coaching dynamic. Key Learning Points: · Explore using clean language techniques in football coaching to help players develop self-awareness. · Encourage players to ask questions of each other rather than giving direct orders or criticism during challenging situations. · Educate coaches and players on the difference between shame and guilt, and how to address feelings of shame in a constructive way. · Mistakes are common in football and pointing the fingers, blaming can lead to guilt, impacting players' confidence and bravery. · Vulnerability is essential to encourage courageous behaviours and collaboration, however it is dependent on the relationship and trust developed between coaches and players. Connect with Duncan O’Brien LinkedIN Connect with David Charlton Join David @ The Sports Psychology Hub Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and LinkedIN Podcast Episodes To Encourage A Positive Sporting Experience Ep286: Nathan Sherratt - How To Understand Neurodiversity Better In Football Refereeing Ep285: Adam Batstone - Football Coaches: How To Help Neurodiverse Players Thrive Ep249: Dr Edward Hall – Understanding Workplace Collaboration In Coaching In Team Sports Ep105: Hannah Bromley – Overcoming Psychological Challenges in Professional Women’s Football Ep065: Dr Amy Izycky – Encouraging Mentally Healthy Cultures in Sport Other Valuable Resources To Encourage A Positive Sporting Experience Podcasts for Sport Coach Development Cricket Psychology Resources Hockey Psychology Resources Rugby Psychology Resources Soccer Psychology Resources…

Demystifying Mental Toughness

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286 How To Understand Neurodiversity Better In Football Refereeing 44:16

6 weeks ago44:16

44:16

Today, the conversation delves into the experiences of a neurodiverse referee, referee educator and coach, Nathan Sherratt, the owner of The Third Team. We discuss the challenges faced in education, the workplace, and on the pitch, highlighting the importance of structure and accountability. David and Nathan also emphasise the need for understanding and support, particularly from clubs, organisations and governing bodies such as the FA, to better accommodate neurodivergent individuals in sports. Nathan goes on to share personal strategies for managing sensory challenges and the significance of self-care, including physical activities like walking and golf. The importance of continuous learning, adaptability, and the value of support networks in achieving success is also a feature of the episode. Key Learning Points: · Explore ways to manage the sensory challenges, such as the cold weather or noisy crowds. · Neurodiverse traits can change over time. · Every individual’s experience of living with autism is different. · Adapting the use of comms kits in professional games and the difficulty of managing multiple conversations simultaneously should be considered by the FA when thinking about supporting Neurodiverse referees and assistant referees. · It is important for governing bodies to invest in supporting and educating people who are neurodiverse to future-proof specific individuals in sports. Connect with Nathan Sherratt Instagram Website - The Third Team Connect with David Charlton Join David @ The Sports Psychology Hub Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and LinkedIN Podcast Episodes To Encourage A Positive Sporting Experience Ep285: Adam Batstone - Football Coaches: How To Help Neurodiverse Players Thrive Ep249: Dr Edward Hall – Understanding Workplace Collaboration In Coaching In Team Sports Ep105: Hannah Bromley – Overcoming Psychological Challenges in Professional Women’s Football Ep065: Dr Amy Izycky – Encouraging Mentally Healthy Cultures in Sport Other Valuable Resources To Encourage A Positive Sporting Experience Podcasts for Sport Coach Development Cricket Psychology Resources Hockey Psychology Resources Rugby Psychology Resources Soccer Psychology Resources…

Demystifying Mental Toughness

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285 Football Coaches: How To Help Neurodiverse Players Thrive 46:10

7 weeks ago46:10

46:10

In today’s episode David Charlton and his colleague Adam Batstone emphasised the importance of psychological support in football and sport coaching with children. They particularly acknowledged the need to foster rapport with parents to address their concerns about disclosing their child's challenges. David and Adam highlighted the need for adaptability in coaching methods, especially for neurodivergent children, who may require more personalised approaches. They discussed strategies like framing sessions, providing clear routines, and using non-confrontational prompts to maintain engagement. The conversation also touched on the significance of life skills development beyond football, noting that coaches can help children build resilience and emotional flexibility, crucial for their future success in various fields. Key Learning Points: · Seek to explore ways to incorporate more flexibility and adaptability in training sessions to better accommodate neurodivergent players. · Develop strategies to build trust with parents, encouraging them to openly share information about their child's needs. · Provide training for coaches on recognizing and supporting neurodivergent behaviours, and implementing effective intervention techniques. · Investigate the feasibility of creating designated "safe spaces" within the training environment for players to self-regulate when needed. · Factor in the psychological planning of training sessions to consider the emotional responses of players. · Utilise additional coaching resources to provide one-on-one support for players who may need it during sessions. Connect with David Charlton Join David @ The Sports Psychology Hub Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and LinkedIN Podcast Episodes To Encourage A Positive Sporting Experience Ep249: Dr Edward Hall – Understanding Workplace Collaboration In Coaching In Team Sports Ep105: Hannah Bromley – Overcoming Psychological Challenges in Professional Women’s Football Ep065: Dr Amy Izycky – Encouraging Mentally Healthy Cultures in Sport Other Valuable Resources To Encourage A Positive Sporting Experience Podcasts for Sport Coach Development Cricket Psychology Resources Hockey Psychology Resources Rugby Psychology Resources Soccer Psychology Resources Podcast Episodes To Help Children Have A Positive Sporting Experience Ep074: David Charlton – How Can I Make My Child Feel Confident? Ep112: David Charlton – How to Deal with Physical Insecurities as a Young Athlete Ep217: Chris Cook – How A Marginal Gains Approach Can Help You Perform Better Resources To Help Children Have A Positive Sporting Experience Helping Young Athletes Manage Emotions Does Your Child Worry Too Much About What Others Think? My Child Can’t Find “The Zone” Other Valuable Resources To Help Children, Young Athletes, Parents and Youth Sport Coaches Youth Sports Psychology Library Conversations With Kids Ideas Frequently Asked Questions - Sport Psychology for Children and Parents…

Demystifying Mental Toughness

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284 What’s To Come This Summer – Contemporary Issues in Sport 5:08

8 weeks ago5:08

5:08

David Charlton introduces the next phase of the "Demystifying Mental Toughness" podcast, where episodes will address various contemporary issues, including diversity, equity, and inclusion, particularly for underrepresented groups like BAME athletes and neurodivergent individuals. The podcast will also discuss the impact of social media and the problematic cultures of blaming and shaming in sports. David emphasizes the importance of recognizing individual differences and avoiding stereotyping, advocating for a more inclusive and supportive approach to enhance the everyone’s overall sporting experience. Connect with David Charlton Join David @ The Sports Psychology Hub Instagram , Facebook and LinkedIN Podcast Episodes To Encourage A Positive Sporting Experience Ep249: Dr Edward Hall – Understanding Workplace Collaboration In Coaching In Team Sports Ep105: Hannah Bromley – Overcoming Psychological Challenges in Professional Women’s Football Ep065: Dr Amy Izycky – Encouraging Mentally Healthy Cultures in Sport Other Valuable Resources To Encourage A Positive Sporting Experience Podcasts for Sport Coach Development Cricket Psychology Resources Hockey Psychology Resources Rugby Psychology Resources Soccer Psychology Resources…

Demystifying Mental Toughness

1
283 How To Help A Swimmer Who Is Online A Lot Checking His Rivals Out 11:28

13 weeks ago11:28

11:28

Today, the case study that David Charlton and his colleague Colm O’Donoghue discuss is connected to a 16-year-old swimmer who spends a lot of time online checking his rivals out, be that on social media or reviewing stats and results. The implication is that his motivation and focus when training fluctuates and negative emotions such as jealousy and anxiety are triggered. As well, potential challenges with his own self-esteem and how he feels about himself can be evident. David and Colm offer some ideas to shift his focus so that he is able to enhance his motivation and feel better in himself. Key Learning Points: Social comparison theory, proposed by Leon Festinger, suggests that individuals evaluate their own abilities, opinions, and accomplishments by comparing themselves to other people. This theory suggests that we have an natural drive to evaluate ourselves, and social comparison is a primary method we use to do so. Develop a pre-race routine to get into the right mindset, consider when you want to be online and not especially as the race draws closer. Set SMART goals focused on personal improvement. Review your emotional experience and self-talk when your online, how does it make your feel? What are you telling yourself about situations that you come across? Connect with David Charlton Join David @ The Sports Psychology Hub Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and LinkedIN Podcast Episodes To Help Children Have A Positive Sporting Experience Ep074: David Charlton – How Can I Make My Child Feel Confident? Ep112: David Charlton – How to Deal with Physical Insecurities as a Young Athlete Ep217: Chris Cook – How A Marginal Gains Approach Can Help You Perform Better Other Valuable Resources To Help Children, Young Athletes, Parents and Youth Sport Coaches Youth Sports Psychology Library Conversations With Kids Ideas Frequently Asked Questions - Sport Psychology for Children and Parents Resources To Help Children Have A Positive Sporting Experience Helping Young Athletes Manage Emotions Does Your Child Worry Too Much About What Others Think? My Child Can’t Find “The Zone”…

Demystifying Mental Toughness

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282 How To Help An Emotional Tennis Player Perform Better 10:49

14 weeks ago10:49

10:49

In this episode, David Charlton and his colleague Colm O’Donoghue discussed a case study of a 12-year-old tennis player who struggled with her emotions on the court. She often became overwhelmed by with anger and frustration or disappointment after making mistakes or losing points, leading to a loss of focus, poor performance and less enjoyment. Her parents also found it very difficult to watch her play and contain themselves as a result too. David and Colm go on to offer some advice for managing these strong emotional responses so that she can perform better and enjoy her tennis more. Key Learning Points: · Improving her emotional regulation is key to her success and enjoyment. · Find ways to focus on the present such as breathing techniques can be useful. · David emphasizes the importance of consistent practice and viewing breathing as a life skill. · Seeing the alignment of the parasympathetic nervous system as a vital component in playing your best by strategically finding ways to slow down can be helpful. · Plan B thinking by using visualisation, where she sees herself making mistakes and feels the emotions that comes with this, then recovering more positively can help her improve her composure in difficult moments. Connect with David Charlton Join David @ The Sports Psychology Hub Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and LinkedIN Podcast Episodes To Help You Regulate Your Emotions Ep071 - James Lau: Mastering The Mental Side Of Tennis Ep232 – Andy Elleray - How To Remain Composed As a Goalkeeper Under Pressure Ep256 – David Charlton - The Immature Brain: How To Help An Emotional Child Other Valuable Resources To Help Children, Young Athletes, Parents and Youth Sport Coaches Youth Sports Psychology Library Conversations With Kids Ideas Frequently Asked Questions - Sport Psychology for Children and Parents Resources To Support Tennis Players Perform Better How To Regain Momentum In Tennis So That You Win More Matches How to Let Go of Mistakes when Playing Tennis How Tennis Players Can Stay Confident Under Pressure…

Demystifying Mental Toughness

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281 How To Help The Golfer Who Searches For The Perfect Swing 10:17

15 weeks ago10:17

10:17

Does the perfect golf swing exist? NO. Does the perfect golf swing equal lower scores in golf? NO – Yet many golfers continue to strive to attain the “perfect swing.” This is the topic of conversation today, where David and colleague Colm O’Donoghue talk about the problem with this approach and the implications for your golf game. They also share some advice on what you could consider doing to improve your scores and your enjoyment of the game. Key Learning Points: Studies suggest that the variation in technique between low handicap amateurs and professional golfers is similar. Consider how you practice your golf, if you practice solely in a technical manner it is likely to tie you up in knots and show in your golf scores. Split your practice into technical, performance, process and creative practice. Do you ever consider how you can access a flow state and what a flow state is for you on the golf course? Connect with David Charlton Join David @ The Sports Psychology Hub Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and LinkedIN Podcast Episodes To Help Golfers Improve Their Scores Ep017: Gio Valiante – How to Play Fearless Golf Ep089: Will Shaw – How To Transfer Your Golfing Skills To The Course Ep101: Compilation – 25 Mental Game Secrets to Improve Your Golf Other Valuable Resources To Help Children, Young Golfers, Parents and Youth Sport Coaches Youth Sports Psychology Library Conversations With Kids Ideas Frequently Asked Questions - Sport Psychology for Children and Parents Resources To Support Golfers So That They Score Better Frequently Asked Questions on Golf Psychology and Golf Mental Skills Golf Psychology and Mental Skills for Golf Library 8 Better Ways to Practice to Your Golf Do You Obsess over the Perfect Golf Swing? Are You Missing Shots Before You’ve Started Your Swing…

Demystifying Mental Toughness

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280 How To Help A Golfer Who Struggles Playing Strokeplay 14:03

16 weeks ago14:03

14:03

David Charlton hosts the Demystifying Mental Toughness podcast with his colleague and a fellow competitive amateur golfer, Colm O’Donoghue today. Colm discusses his journey from playing golf as a child to returning to the sport in his mid-20s, driven by an interest in the psychological aspects of golf. He shares his struggles with perfectionism and the importance of maintaining a present-focused mindset. Together they talk about a case study of a young golfer, who excels in match play but struggles with stroke play due to focusing too much on the score. Colm and David emphasize the importance of a pre-shot routine in maintaining his focus and staying present, which can help manage his arousal levels, in turn, lowering his scores. Key Learning Points: · Trying to play perfect golf and focusing too much on the score can impact enjoyment of the sport. · Colm explains the difference between match play and stroke play, emphasizing the reset nature of match play and the need to focus on the process in stroke play. · Self-awareness is critical, recognising and being able to reset when you are ahead of yourself and predicting future holes, shots or score and identifying when you are stuck in the past, dwelling on mistakes. Connect with David Charlton Join David @ The Sports Psychology Hub Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and LinkedIN Podcast Episodes To Help Golfers Focus On The Process Ep243 David Charlton - How I Would Help Rory McIlroy Win The British Open Ep099 Trevor Jones - How to Deal with Overthinking on the Golf Course Ep167 Karl Morris - How To Manage Your Emotions To Improve Your Golf #BITESIZE Other Valuable Resources To Help Children, Young Golfers, Parents and Youth Sport Coaches Youth Sports Psychology Library Conversations With Kids Ideas Frequently Asked Questions - Sport Psychology for Children and Parents Resources To Support Golfers So That They Focus Better Frequently Asked Questions on Golf Psychology and Golf Mental Skills Golf Psychology and Mental Skills for Golf Library Control Your Thoughts on the Golf Course Play Your Best Golf More Often…

Demystifying Mental Toughness

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279 How To Help A Cricketer Overcome Selections Difficulties 11:35

17 weeks ago11:35

11:35

Today, in episode #279 David and Gerard discuss the challenges faced by a 12-year-old cricketer named Amir (pseudonym), who is a leg spinner struggling with inconsistent selection due to the club's preference for pace bowling. Amir's fluctuating motivation and confidence, as well as the potential for dropping out of cricket are attributed to poor communication from coaches and his own difficulty in expressing frustrations. Key Learning Points: · Helping the cricketer develop psychological flexibility to separate his self-worth from the selection decisions made by the coaches is key. · Encourage the cricketer to focus on the controllables, such as his attitude, effort, and the key ingredients that make up a good performance, rather than the uncontrollable factors like the perfect delivery. · Coaches should consider carefully how they communicate to prevent young cricketers and athletes from feeling undervalued and potentially quitting the sport. Connect with David Charlton Join David @ The Sports Psychology Hub Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and LinkedIN Podcast Episodes Related To The Youth Sport Experience Ep176 Camilla Knight: How To Help Enhance The Psychological Wellbeing Of Children In Sport #BITESIZE Ep168 - Andrew Simpson: How To Navigate Youth Sports So That Children Enjoy The Experience More Ep141 -David Charlton: How to Help a Child Who Wants to Quit Sport Other Valuable Resources To Help Children, Young Athletes, Parents and Youth Sport Coaches Youth Sports Psychology Library Conversations With Kids Ideas Frequently Asked Questions - Sport Psychology for Children and Parents Resources To Support Cricketers So That They Play With Confidence Cricket Psychology Library 7 Questions to Ask Yourself Before You Bowl Every Delivery Make Bowling Simple by Avoiding these 3 Common Mental Game Errors…

Demystifying Mental Toughness

1
278 How To Help Young Athletes Who Are Distracted By Shouty Coaches Subtitle: 12:51

18 weeks ago12:51

12:51

In today’s episode, #278 David and Gerard discuss the impact of a shouty coach on an 18-year-old rugby player named Tom (pseudonym). They explore how such coaching styles can lead to self-doubt, low self-esteem, and increased self-criticism, affecting both on-field performance and confidence levels. They emphasize the importance of coaches fostering a supportive environment where players can express themselves freely. Key Learning Points: · The conversation highlights the broader issue of youth sports participation and the need for a supportive coaching culture. · Develop standardised behaviour routines for young athletes, focusing on the attributes of their favourite players (e.g., work rate, commitment, shooting of Ronaldo). · Ask the athlete questions to understand their perspective on what behaviours mean to them personally (eg. work rate and commitment). Often a coaches’ or parents’ interpretation can be very different. · Focus on solutions to help young footballers and athletes manage their emotions effectively. Connect with David Charlton Join David @ The Sports Psychology Hub Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and LinkedIN Podcast Episodes Related To The Youth Sport Experience Ep055: Natalie Henderson, John Fletcher & James Maurice – How to Develop Mental Strength in Young Athletes Ep064: Edu Rubio – How to Support Young Footballers Ep074: David Charlton – How Can I Make My Child Feel Confident Other Valuable Resources To Help Children, Young Athletes, Parents and Youth Sport Coaches Youth Sports Psychology Library Conversations With Kids Ideas Frequently Asked Questions - Sport Psychology for Children and Parents…

Demystifying Mental Toughness

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277 How To Help An Extra Competitive Footballer 12:01

19 weeks ago12:01

12:01

In episode #277 David and Gerard Fitzgerald discussed how to help shift the focus of an extra competitive footballer or athlete, using the example of a boy named Joe who hates losing. Key points included the importance of harnessing anger positively, as seen with Wayne Rooney's iconic goal in 2005 for Manchester United versus Newcastle United. They also share the need to normalise emotional responses like anger where footballers may kick out, tackle over aggressively, shout at team-mates or display poor body language. Parents and coaches are advised to avoid adding to the child's stress and activating their sympathetic nervous system anymore by shouting and yelling at them, instead helping them regulate emotions. Key Learning Points: · Develop standardised behaviour routines for young footballers, focusing on the attributes of their favourite players (e.g., work rate, commitment, shooting of Ronaldo). · Ask the athlete questions to understand their perspective on what behaviours (work rate, commitment) mean to them as often a coach or parents’ interpretation can be very different. · Accept and seek to understand individual perspectives, traits and subsequent behaviours without being overly judgemental. · Focus on solutions to help young footballers and athletes manage their emotions effectively. Connect with David Charlton Join David @ The Sports Psychology Hub Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and LinkedIN Podcast Episodes Related To The Youth Sport Experience Ep082: David Charlton – Supporting Children in Sport with Positive Feedback Ep122: Prof Camilla Knight – Helping Your Children Get The Most From Their Sporting Experiences Other Valuable Resources To Help Children, Young Athletes, Parents and Youth Sport Coaches Youth Sports Psychology Library Conversations With Kids Ideas Frequently Asked Questions - Sport Psychology for Children and Parents Helpful Resources For Young Football and Soccer Players, Parents and Youth Sport Coaches Frequently Asked Questions - Goalkeeping Psychology Frequently Asked Questions - Football Psychology Ep276: How To Help A Footballer Who Focuses Too Much On Other People Ep049: James Maurice – How Does Sport Psychology in Elite Football Academies Help…

Demystifying Mental Toughness

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276 How To Help A Footballer Who Focuses Too Much On Other People 16:19

20 weeks ago16:19

16:19

Today marks the start of an 8-episode series where David Charlton is joined by a colleague. Gerard Fitzgerald features in this episode, as well as the next 3 episodes. They go on to discuss a case study of a young female footballer, 11 years old with a pseudonym name called Carly who is a sensitive soul who worries too much about other people (team-mates specifically in this case). We go on to normalise emotional sensitivity in young athletes, highlighting that it can be a strength if managed properly. We also talk about the challenges of emotional sensitivity where young athletes often face mental drain and self-doubt. David and Gerard then go on to share some advice for parents and coaches to manage emotionally sensitive players who can focus too much on their team-mates. Key Learning Points: · Explore ways to normalize the emotional experiences of young athletes and help them manage the mental demands of the sport. · Develop strategies to shift the focus from negative self-criticism and comparison to a more positive, responsibility-based approach. · The conversation explores how a neutral third party can provide a fresh perspective and help both parents and children understand each other better. · Constant comparison to teammates can lead to self-doubt and criticism in young athletes and footballers. · The discussion concludes with a reminder that the win-at-all-costs attitude can sometimes drive young athletes away from sport emphasising the need for fun and enjoyment. Connect with David Charlton Join David @ The Sports Psychology Hub Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and LinkedIN Podcast Episodes Related To The Youth Sport Experience Ep049: James Maurice – How Does Sport Psychology in Elite Football Academies Help Ep082: David Charlton – Supporting Children in Sport with Positive Feedback Ep122: Prof Camilla Knight – Helping Your Children Get The Most From Their Sporting Experiences Ep131 David Charlton – How to Deal with Self-Criticism using Self Compassion – FINAL PART Ep141: David Charlton – How to Help a Child Who Wants to Quit Sport Other Valuable Resources To Help Children, Young Athletes, Parents and Youth Sport Coaches Youth Sports Psychology Library Soccer and Football Psychology Library Conversations With Kids Ideas Frequently Asked Questions - Sport Psychology for Children and Parents…

Demystifying Mental Toughness

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275 Demystifying Mental Toughness Podcast – What happens next? 5:57

23 weeks ago5:57

5:57

After a short break from creating and broadcasting episodes of the Demystifying Mental Toughness Podcast, in episode #275, David discusses a change in format to the podcast for the rest of 2025. He also highlights the benefits of having a support system and the benefits of reading and acting on advice from The 12 Week Year, book written by Brian F Moran and Michael Lemmington. Key Learning Points: · Taking a break can revive our motivation and creativity similar to the power of periodisation in sport or strength training. · The next episode will be published on Friday 04 April. · An 8-week series of episodes focusing on the youth sport experience will follow. · David’s Irish based colleagues Gerard Fitzgerald and Colm O’Donoghue will provide support for David in these episodes sharing their perspective. · Challenges that youth athletes, sporting parents and youth coaches regularly come across will be a feature of our discussions. Connect with David Charlton Join David @ The Sports Psychology Hub Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and LinkedIN Podcast Episodes Related To The Youth Sport Experience Ep049: James Maurice – How Does Sport Psychology in Elite Football Academies Help Ep082: David Charlton – Supporting Children in Sport with Positive Feedback Ep122: Prof Camilla Knight – Helping Your Children Get The Most From Their Sporting Experiences Ep131 David Charlton – How to Deal with Self-Criticism using Self Compassion – FINAL PART Ep141: David Charlton – How to Help a Child Who Wants to Quit Sport Other Valuable Resources To Help Children, Young Athletes, Parents and Youth Sport Coaches Youth Sports Psychology Library Conversations With Kids Ideas Frequently Asked Questions - Sport Psychology for Children and Parents…

Demystifying Mental Toughness

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274 How You Can Challenge Yourself To Feel More In Control 19:48

30 weeks ago19:48

19:48

In this week’s episode of the Demystifying Mental Toughness Podcast #274, we focus in on the control and challenge measures from Professor Peter Clough’s 4C’s model of Mental Toughness. David highlights how US tennis player Danielle Collins' managed fans heckling at the Australian Open to aid her performance. Insightful guests, Sport Psychologists, World Champion Athletes and Olympians also offer tips: where they focus on self-care for perfectionists, emphasise why getting clarity on your "why" is important, stressing present-moment awareness and a lot more. Key Learning Points: · Incorporate self-care practices, such as taking breaks from screens, doing breathwork, or a gratitude practice to aid your emotional control. · Danielle Collins showed a degree of emotional control and a sense of humour to turn negative fan comments into motivation, rather than letting them affect her performance. · Many driven athletes can take things too seriously impacting their emotional control and ability to challenge themself. · Play the observation game to improve your awareness of behaviours that you carry out, focusing on your reactions, inadvertently the outcome can then be improved performance. · To help children in sort, parents should lead with love and care, avoiding pointing out flaws, focusing on positive reinforcement. Connect with David Charlton Join David @ The Sports Psychology Hub Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and LinkedIN Relevant Podcast Episodes To Help You Improve Your Control and Challenge Levels as Relayed in Episode 274 Ep172: Brandon Epstein – Working With Your Subconscious Mind To Achieve Better Results Ep168: Andrew Simpson – How To Navigate Youth Sports So That Children Enjoy The Experience More Ep162: Sun Sachs & Ed Gibbins: How to Find a Flow State to Improve Your Performance Ep099: Trevor Jones – How to Deal with Overthinking on the Golf Course Ep083: Billy Schwer – Life Lessons from a World Champion Boxer Ep081: Stuart Wade – Mental Toughness in Combat Sports Ep033: Aly Dixon – Mental Toughness Lessons from a World Champion Ep013: Karl Morris – How to Stay Present like a Major Champion Ep017: Gio Valiante – How to Play Fearless Golf Other Valuable Resources To Help You Improve Your Control and Challenge Levels Challenge Podcasts Bravery Podcasts Emotional Control Podcasts Emotional Control Blogs Emotional Intelligence Blogs Emotional Regulation Blogs…

Demystifying Mental Toughness

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273 How To Improve Your Mental Toughness For Team Sports 12:13

31 weeks ago12:13

12:13

The "Demystifying Mental Toughness" podcast episode #273, hosted by David Charlton, features insights from various team sports coaches and athletes, on commitment and confidence. Key points include the importance of individual motivation in team sports, maintaining a balance in life, and the necessity of standing out in training and matches. Guests emphasize the need for authenticity and surrounding oneself with positive influences, as well as many other great points. Key Learning Points: · Prioritize your own performances and progress, saying no to activities that are incompatible with your development. · A combination of confidence and commitment characteristics can lead to optimistic and challenging goal-setting. · To overcome fear and procrastination you could chunk down, planning goals in small steps towards your larger goals. · Cultivate a brave and determined mindset when it comes to goal-setting, where failure is not an option. Connect with David Charlton Join David @ The Sports Psychology Hub Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and LinkedIN Relevant Podcast Episodes To Help You Improve Your Commitment and Confidence Levels as Relayed in Episode 273 Ep104: Seb De Chaves – The Psychological Demands of Elite Professional Rugby Ep091: Jarrod Leathem - How to Transfer Your Cricket Skills to Matches Ep077: Danny Thomas – Before, During and After Professional Football Ep072 Tom Jones: Mastering the Mental Side of Cricket Ep043: Jamie Forrester – Thriving in Professional Football Ep029: Lome Faatau – How to Play Professional Rugby with Confidence Ep018: Kieron Brady – From Professional Football to Alcoholism Consultant Ep007: Toby Flood – How Elite Athletes Mentally Prepare Ep003: Peter Ramage – Developing a Premier League Mindset Other Valuable Resources To Improve Your You Improve Your Commitment and Confidence Levels Podcasts for Sport Coach Development Cricket Psychology Resources Goalkeeping Psychology Resources Hockey Psychology Resources Rugby Psychology Resources Soccer Psychology Resources…

Demystifying Mental Toughness

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272 Sport Coaches: 15 Tips To Help You Become A Better Coach 24:04

32 weeks ago24:04

24:04

Today’s podcast episode #272, focuses on helping coaches develop themselves and improve their relationships with their athletes, in turn, positively influencing performances. Many different guests from the Demystifying Mental Toughness Podcast emphasize the following points when considering self-improvement: sport coaches should be open-minded, focus on continuous learning and film themselves frequently. In developing their athletes: the importance of high support in coaching, understanding athletes have lives outside of sport, adapting their communication to athletes different learning styles and process-oriented coaching are also touched on, as well as a lot more. Key Learning Points: · Develop a psychosocial plan for your athletes/players and consider how to deliver it in a language they can understand and engage with. · As a coach, start where you are, considering your skills and personality and look to make the environment better. · When coaching focus on developing all aspects, including the psychological, biomechanical, technical and tactical, to help athletes fall in love with their role. · When coaching film yourself regularly and review the footage to understand how you are interacting with athletes/players. · Focus on the process, not just the outcome, and help athletes stay committed to the process, especially under pressure. Connect with David Charlton Join David @ The Sports Psychology Hub Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and LinkedIN Relevant Podcast Episodes To You Help You Become A Better Sport Coach as Relayed in Episode 272 Ep249: Dr Edward Hall – Understanding Workplace Collaboration In Coaching In Team Sports Ep209: Felix Lehmann – How To Create Better Decision Makers On The Football Pitch Ep166: Mark Bennett MBE – How To Help Athletes and Coaches Reflect On Their Performances Ep165: Andy Elleray – How To Master the Mental Challenges Goalkeeping Throws at You EP147: Aaron Walsh – The Application of Mental Performance Coaching in Elite Professional Rugby Ep105: Hannah Bromley – Overcoming Psychological Challenges in Professional Women’s Football Ep096: Gary Curneen – Developing Mentally Strong Footballers Ep094: Professor Adam Nicholls – How to Develop Mentally Strong Rugby Players Ep093: Dan Abrahams – How to Overcome Mental Blocks in Football Ep087: Carl Bell – From Professional Football and Goalkeeping to Physiotherapy Ep039: John Fletcher – How to Develop Fearless Athletes Ep027: Natalie Henderson – How to Develop Mental Toughness with Young Footballers Other Valuable Resources To Improve Your Level Of Sport Coaching Podcasts for Sport Coach Development Cricket Psychology Resources Goalkeeping Psychology Resources Hockey Psychology Resources Rugby Psychology Resources Soccer Psychology Resources…

Demystifying Mental Toughness

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271 25 Ways To Improve Your Mental Toughness 27:45

33 weeks ago27:45

27:45

Happy New Year! Why not make 2025 one of your best years to date? To do so if you focus some attention on improving your mental toughness by creating better routines and habits you can give yourself a great chance. In this NEW episode, a number of our excellent guests offer many helpful and inspiring suggestions. Points of note relate to understanding the stories that you tell yourself about certain situations, events and abilities, how to find your passion and purpose, being authentic and true to yourself, considering who you surround yourself with and many more things. Key Learning Points: · Reflect on your own narrative and find ways to make it more empowering. · Create a real and imaginary "board of directors" of mentors and inspirational figures to provide guidance. · Identify your routines and habits, how you spend your time, and make relevant adjustments. · Embrace fear and use it as a tool for growth. · Identify and manage your character traits that can hold you back. · Prioritise personal development and spend time working on yourself. Connect with David Charlton Join David @ The Sports Psychology Hub Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and LinkedIN Relevant Podcast Episodes To Improve Your Mental Toughness as Relayed in Episode 271 Ep001: Doug Strycharczyk – The Importance of Mental Toughness Ep028: Peter Clough MBE – Why is Mental Toughness Important? Ep035: Dr John Perry – Thrive, Don’t Just Survive 2021 Ep037: Penny Mallory – World Class Thinking, World Class Behaviour Ep041: Paul McGee – How to Develop Interpersonal Confidence Ep065: Dr Amy Izycky – Encouraging Mentally Healthy Cultures in Sport Ep066: Marilyn Okoro – Mental Health and Resilience: Lessons from an Olympic Medalist Ep068: Andrew Nicholson – How Hard Is It To Become A Tour Professional Golfer? Ep075: Grant Phyphers – How to Rebuild Your Identity Ep098: Jon Bartlett – Do You Know Your Why? E p113: Polly Brennan – The Relationship Between Mental Fitness, Mental Health and Mental Toughness Ep213: Sandro Forte – How To Set Yourself Up For Success In 2024? Ep250: Ruth Chiles and Alessia Bruno Optimising Your Potential By Understanding Your Nervous System Better Other Valuable Resources To Improve Your Mental Toughness Resilience in Sport Blogs Resilience in Sport Podcasts Mental Toughness in Sport Podcasts Mental Toughness in Sport Blogs…

Demystifying Mental Toughness

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270 11 Ways To Build Your Mental Fortitude 17:56

34 weeks ago17:56

17:56

In today’s podcast episode #270, many of our fabulous guests share some tips so that you can build your mental fortitude and consistently perform well in 2025. Key points relate to rest, recovery and well-being where they identify; managing fatigue, nasal breathing, the importance of rest days, nutrition, hydration, cold water and much more to ensure you attack the new year. If you’re looking to get into good habits and maintain optimal well-being and performance this podcast episode is a must to listen to. Key Learning Points: · Identify the types of fatigue that you are susceptible to and develop a plan to address it. · Keep a training diary to track how you are feeling day-to-day. · Ensure you are taking regular rest days and incorporating activities to nurture your well-being. · The importance of staying hydrated cannot be understated. · Incorporate cold exposure, such as cold showers, to aid recovery. · Circadian rhythms and the importance of sleep for growth and regeneration should be factored in. Connect with David Charlton Join David @ The Sports Psychology Hub Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and LinkedIN Relevant Podcast Episodes To Build Your Mental Fortitude as Relayed in Episode 270 Ep015: Nick Grantham – Essential Elements of Rest and Recovery Ep037: Penny Mallory – World Class Thinking, World Class Behaviour Ep065: Dr Amy Izycky – Encouraging Mentally Healthy Cultures in Sport Ep046: Kate Mackay – Why Snowboarding is a Metaphor for Life E p113: Polly Brennan – The Relationship Between Mental Fitness, Mental Health and Mental Toughness Ep138: Nick Littlehales – Why do the Mentally Tough see Sleep and Recovery as Important Ep210: Anna Parker-Naples - Why Breathwork is so Powerful - Sports Psychology Ep214: Ellen McDermott – How To Create Helpful Eating Habits To Benefit Your Sport Performance Ep215: Fenwick Ridley – How Ice Swimming And Cold Immersion Can Help You Take Control Of Your Destiny Other Valuable Resources To Build Your Mental Fortitude Resilience in Sport Blogs Resilience in Sport Podcasts Mental Toughness in Sport Podcasts Confidence in Sport Blogs Mental Health Blogs…

Demystifying Mental Toughness

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269 Do You Want to Make Next Year a Great Year? Why Contact A Sport Psychologist! 11:21

35 weeks ago11:21

11:21

In episode #269 David addresses the question, “What Can I Expect When Working With A Sport Psychologist” for the final time as this episode marks the end of an 8 part series. This time he focuses on the following statements “Performance Enhancement: The sports psychologist will help you identify and overcome mental barriers that may be hindering your performance” and “Feedback and Reflection: Expect regular discussions about your progress, experiences in training or competition, and adjustments to your mental training plan.” David highlights that a high percentage of athletes who contact sports psychologists are reactive often acting on emotion seeking to deal with challenges they are going through. Whilst proactive clients, especially top performing elite athletes, contact sports psychologists when they are in a good place, seeking continuous improvement and looking to embrace a marginal gains approach. He concludes by encouraging listeners to reflect on their 2024 achievements, failures, and lessons learned, offering a blog post with additional questions for self-analysis so that you can make 2025 a great year. Key Learning Points One typical challenge athletes bring to sports psychologists, link to not performing at the level that they train at, which can be caused by the need for social approval, perfectionist tendencies, questionable culture and processes at a club or organisation, with fear then kicking in for the athlete. Sharing surprising statistics about elite athletes such as Harry Kane’s goal scoring success rate and Trent Alexander-Arnold's cross accuracy can help perfectionists recognise how many times elite performers do actually miss or fail, forcing athletes to revisit their own expectations. He shares a case study of a proactive top cricketer who used detailed performance profiling to benchmark and measure progress, therefore challenging them to get out of their comfort zone. A skill of a sports psychologist is to ask athletes great questions so that they go on to assess how they can continually strive to improve their methods and performance levels. Connect with David Charlton Join David @ The Sports Psychology Hub Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and LinkedIN To Listen to Related Podcasts To Help You Improve Your Performances Next Year Ep264: David Charlton - How to Enhance Focus, Motivation and Confidence Ep260: David Charlton - What Can I Expect When Working With A Sport Psychologist Ep144: Jon Watkins – Mental Strength: What You Can Learn About Resilience From The Special Forces Ep106: Amy Rowlinson – Why is knowing my WHY important? Ep086: David Charlton – Observations: How to Learn from Setbacks Relevant Blogs and Resources To Help You Make Next Year a Great Year Blog: How To Learn From Last Year Blog: What Did You Learn From Last Year? Motivation for Sport Quiz Blog: Make Better Decisions to Help Your Sport Performance including VALUES LIST David Charlton, Sport Psychologist: Why I Do What I Do…

Demystifying Mental Toughness

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268 Confidentiality: Ethical Considerations for Sport Psychologists 8:14

36 weeks ago8:14

8:14

In today’s episode David explores the importance of confidentiality when working as a Sport Psychologist when supporting clients. He discusses how various environments, such as cafes, public spaces, and formal meeting rooms, can impact a client's comfort and confidentiality. He also emphasizes the need for tailored settings, considering factors like social anxiety, neurodiversity, and the client's familiarity with the space. The episode also covers the ethical considerations in working with athletes, including transparency with coaches, the involvement of parents with young clients, and the use of well-known names. David underlines the significance of confidentiality in building trust and facilitating effective behaviour change development. Key Learning Points: · Reminding yourself who is your client when you work as a Sport Psychologist is important especially in organisational settings or when supporting children. · Obtain written consent when using well-known names or client reviews for marketing purposes. · Establish clear processes when working with clients in an organisational setting. · When training to become a fully accredited sports psychologist the importance of maintaining ethical practices is covered in depth. Connect with David Charlton Join David @ The Sports Psychology Hub Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and LinkedIN To Listen to Related Podcasts To Help You Improve Your Understanding of Sports Psychology Ep260: David Charlton - What Can I Expect When Working With A Sport Psychologist Ep249: Dr Edward Hall - Understanding Workplace Collaboration In Coaching In Team Sports Ep166: Mark Bennett MBE – How To Help Athletes and Coaches Reflect On Their Performances Ep138: Nick Littlehales – Why do the Mentally Tough see Sleep and Recovery as Important Ep065: Dr Amy Izycky – Encouraging Mentally Healthy Cultures in Sport Relevant Blogs And Resources To Help Your Understanding of Sports Psychology Blog: How Mentally Healthy is Your Clubs Sporting Environment Blog: Does Your Warm Up Influence How You Perform? Blog: Using ACT and Mindfulness to Improve Your Sporting Performances Blog: How to Stay Calm as a Coach in Big Matches Blog: 5 Reasons Why Being Released from a Football Academy is Difficult…

Demystifying Mental Toughness

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267 How to Help Sports Coaches Navigate Anxiety 9:07

37 weeks ago9:07

9:07

In episode #267 of Demystifying Mental Toughness, David discusses the role of a Sport Psychologist in helping coaches manage anxiety. He differentiates between state anxiety, which occurs in specific situations, and trait anxiety, a personality trait influenced by factors such as childhood, genetics, trauma and environment. David goes on to share to insights to aid the understanding of coaches on the topic, with some solutions discussed too. Key Learning Points: · State anxiety can be managed through understanding triggers and subsequent thoughts, and behaviours. · Trait anxiety may require referrals to clinical or counselling psychologists. · Understanding and managing bodily experiences of anxiety, such as heart racing and tension, can help coaches navigate their emotions better. · Techniques associated with Self-Compassion Focused Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy and Mindfulness can help coaches stay present and manage their anxieties better. Connect with David Charlton Join David @ The Sports Psychology Hub Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and LinkedIN To Listen to Related Podcasts To Help You Improve Your Coaching Methods Ep266: David Charlton - How to Help Sports Coaches Cope With Pressure and Stress Better Ep265: David Charlton - How to Help Sports Coaches Self Regulate Their Emotions Ep260: David Charlton - What Can I Expect When Working With A Sport Psychologist Ep249: Dr Edward Hall - Understanding Workplace Collaboration In Coaching In Team Sports Ep166: Mark Bennett MBE – How To Help Athletes and Coaches Reflect On Their Performances Relevant Blogs And Resources To Help You Improve Coaching Methods Stress, Appraisal, and Coping Book : Lazarus PhD, Richard S., Susan Folkman PhD Online Course for Sports Coaches developed by Professor Sophia Jowett – Empowering the athlete: The coach-athlete partnership Anxiety and panic attacks - Mind The Mental Edge - Enhancing Coach-Athlete Relations Blog: How to Stay Calm as a Coach in Big Matches Blog: Helping Confident Coaches Progress…

Demystifying Mental Toughness

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266 How to Help Sports Coaches Cope With Pressure and Stress Better 11:40

38 weeks ago11:40

11:40

Today David considers the statement: “Coping strategies: You’ll develop tools to manage pressure and stress” where he focuses on supporting coaches to improve themselves, and in turn, improve their athletes. This is a continuation of his examination into ChatGPT and its response to the question “What Can I Expect When Working With A Sport Psychologist.” David shares many insightful thoughts about the topic to be able to support coaches. With some great questions for coaches to ask themselves. Key Learning Points: How do you want your athletes to behave around your club? Do you as a coach help your athletes mind and body to work in harmony? How can you activate your parasympathetic nervous system more to influence your athletes? Coach pressures come from managing athletes, senior management, coaching colleagues, sport science staff and parents goals, expectations and personalities and much more. Fear can play a big part and influence coaches; fear of failure, fear of judgement, fear of pain, fear of regret and fear of rejection. Connect with David Charlton Sign Up to The Mental Edge Join David @ The Sports Psychology Hub Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and LinkedIN To Listen to Related Podcasts To Help You Improve Your Coaching Methods Ep265: David Charlton - How to Help Sports Coaches Self Regulate Their Emotions Ep264: David Charlton- How to Enhance Focus, Motivation and Confidence Ep260: David Charlton - What Can I Expect When Working With A Sport Psychologist Ep249: Dr Edward Hall - Understanding Workplace Collaboration In Coaching In Team Sports Ep166: Mark Bennett MBE – How To Help Athletes and Coaches Reflect On Their Performances Relevant Blogs And Resources To Help You Improve Coaching Methods Stress, Appraisal, and Coping Book : Lazarus PhD, Richard S., Susan Folkman PhD Online Course for Sports Coaches developed by Professor Sophia Jowett – Empowering the athlete: The coach-athlete partnership The Mental Edge - Enhancing Coach-Athlete Relations Blog: How to Stay Calm as a Coach in Big Matches Blog: Helping Confident Coaches Progress…

Demystifying Mental Toughness

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265 How to Help Sports Coaches Self Regulate Their Emotions 8:23

39 weeks ago8:23

8:23

Professor Sophia Jowett’s has conducted a lot of research into understanding the interpersonal dynamics between coaches and athletes and is instrumental in raising awareness and changing attitudes around the reciprocity of the relationship and the importance of relational qualities including mutual trust, respect, appreciation, commitment, loyalty, co-operation and collaboration. In today’s episode, part 4 of David’s investigation into ChatGPT’s and its response to the question “What Can I Expect When Working With A Sport Psychologist” he goes on to discuss supporting a coach who receives negative feedback from athletes or players. The aim is to aid your understanding of applying psychological skills training (PST) techniques such as self- talk, relaxation and visualisation to improve the quality of the coach-athlete relationship, and in turn, positively impact both coaches’ and athletes’ performance and wellbeing. There are connections between the points discussed and Jowett’s work. Enjoy tuning in! Key Learning Points: Coaches can benefit from being supported by Sport Psychologists too, not just athletes. As a coach understanding your own emotions and why they occur can benefit your relationships with athletes or players. When you experience negative emotions as a coach does your self-talk become judgemental? Instructional self-talk can benefit coaches to manage situations better. Allowing your self some space to breathe as a coach is useful and can help your behaviour management, as can improving your visualisation skills. Connect with David Charlton Sign Up to The Mental Edge Join David @ The Sports Psychology Hub Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and LinkedIN To Listen to Related Podcasts To Help You Improve Your Understanding of Sports Psychology Ep161: Paul Phillips – How to Create a Culture of High Performance in Professional Rugby Union Ep166: Mark Bennett MBE – How To Help Athletes and Coaches Reflect On Their Performances Ep180: David Charlton – How To Work With Team Units To Improve Culture In Teams Ep209: Felix Lehmann – How To Create Better Decision Makers On The Football Pitch Ep249: Dr Edward Hall - Understanding Workplace Collaboration In Coaching In Team Sports Relevant Blogs And Resources To Help You Improve Coach Athlete Relationships Online Course for Sports Coaches developed by Professor Sophia Jowett – Empowering the athlete: The coach-athlete partnership The Mental Edge - Enhancing Coach-Athlete Relations Blog: Why You Should Recognise The Power of Your Words Blog: How to Stay Calm as a Coach in Big Matches Blog: Helping Confident Coaches Progress…

Demystifying Mental Toughness

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264 How to Enhance Focus, Motivation and Confidence 13:26

40 weeks ago13:26

13:26

Ensuring that your focus is placed on helpful things, that you stay motivated during difficult times and that your confidence levels remain steady and intact even when you lose form are seen as vitally important components being a top class athlete. In today’s episode, part 3 of David’s investigation into ChatGPT’s and its response to the question “What Can I Expect When Working With A Sport Psychologist” he goes on to share with you some helpful tools that you can help athletes in this context. Key Learning Points: Enhancing focus is a skill that can be developed by understanding aspects that are out of your control and to be able to shift your attention purposefully on helpful things/processes that are within your control. A great question to aid your motivation is to go back to the question from time to time – Why do I play my sport? To maintain steady levels of confidence, recognising where you gain confidence from is key. Connect with David Charlton Sign Up to The Mental Edge Join David @ The Sports Psychology Hub Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and LinkedIN To Listen to Related Podcasts To Help You Improve Your Understanding of Sports Psychology Ep261: David Charlton - Why Are The Sporting Goals That You Set Yourself Not Helping You Ep260 - David Charlton - What Can I Expect When Working With A Sport Psychologist Ep160: Brian Hemmings – Golf Psychology: What You Can Expect and Why It Can Help You Ep146: John Nassoori – What Is The Role Of A Sports Psychologist In Football? Ep111: Michael Caulfield – How to be an Effective Sports Psychologist in Elite Professional Football Relevant Blogs And Resources To Help You Enhance Focus, Motivation and Confidence Motivation for Sport Quiz Download THE FOCUSED ATHLETE CHECKLIST Performance Profile for Long Term Goals Performance Profiling: When You’re Looking For A Quick Boost Handout: Marginal Gains Refining Your Approach…

Demystifying Mental Toughness

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263 30 Further Ideas to Aid Your Performance and Psychological Well-Being 29:52

41 weeks ago29:52