“Hockey is played in the Now, everywhere else are just thoughts” -Walter Aguilar
As an IPEC COR.E Performance Dynamics Specialist, I understand the importance of mental toughness in sports. Mental toughness is what separates elite athletes from the rest of the pack. In hockey, mental toughness is essential for success, and playing one shift at a time, one moment ata time is a key element of mental toughness.
Hockey is a fast-paced game that requires split-second decisions. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement and lose focus on the present moment. When players lose focus, they make mistakes, which can lead to turnovers, missed opportunities, and ultimately, losing the game.
Playing one shift at a time, one moment at a time is a technique that helps hockey players stay focused on the present moment. It involves breaking the game down into smaller, more manageable segments. Instead of focusing on the final score, players focus on winning each shift.
When players focus on winning each shift, they’re less likely to get overwhelmed by the game’s big picture. Instead, they’re able to stay in the moment and make better decisions. They’re also able to maintain a high level of intensity throughout the game, which is essential for success in hockey.
Playing one shift at a time, one moment at a time also helps players stay calm under pressure. In hockey, there are plenty of high-pressure situations, such as penalty kills and power plays. When players focus on the present moment, they’re able to stay calm and make better decisions under pressure.
To be successful at playing one shift at a time, one moment at a time, hockey players need to have strong mental skills. These mental skills include focus, concentration, and visualization. They also need to have a strong sense of self-awareness and the ability to regulate their emotions.
Focus and concentration are essential for playing one shift at a time, one moment at a time. Hockey players need to be able to block out distractions and stay focused on the task at hand. This means staying focused on the present moment and not worrying about past mistakes or future outcomes.
Visualization is another essential mental skill for playing one shift at a time, one moment at a time. Visualization involves creating mental images of success. By visualizing success, hockey players can build confidence and maintain a positive attitude throughout the game.
Self-awareness and emotional regulation are also important for playing one shift at a time, one moment at a time. Hockey players need to be aware of their emotions and be able to regulate them effectively. This means staying calm under pressure and not getting too high or too low emotionally.
Playing one shift at a time, one moment at a time is not only important for hockey players, but it’s also essential for coaches. Coaches need to be able to break the game down into smaller segments and help their players stay focused on the present moment. This means providing clear and concise instructions and feedback to their players.
Coaches also need to have strong leadership skills and be able to motivate their players effectively. This means setting clear goals and expectations and holding their players accountable for their performance. When players know what’s expected of them and have a clear sense of direction, they’re more likely to stay focused on the present moment.
In the end, playing one shift at a time, one moment at a time is essential for success in hockey. It helps players stay focused on the present moment, maintain a high level of intensity, and make better decisions under pressure. To be successful at playing one shift at a time, one moment at a time, hockey players need to have strong mental skills such as focus, concentration, visualization, self-awareness, and emotional regulation. Coaches also play an important role in helping their players stay focused on the present moment by providing clear and concise instructions and feedback and motivating their players effectively. By playing one shift at a time, one moment at a time, success becomes journey not just the outcome.
