Why Being in the Present Moment is Crucial
As a young hockey player or goalie, you’ve probably heard coaches and teammates talk about the importance of “staying in the moment” or “being present” during a game. But what does that really mean, and why is it so important for your performance on the ice?
The Trap of Overthinking
Imagine this: You’re in the middle of a tryout, and you start thinking about that mistake you made in the first period. Or maybe you’re worrying about what the scouts or coaches are thinking of you right now. Before you know it, your mind is caught in a whirlwind of thoughts about the past or future. This is what we call overthinking, and it can be a dangerous trap for any player.
When you’re stuck in your thoughts, you’re no longer fully engaged in the game. Your energy is split between what’s happening on the ice and what’s happening in your mind. This divided focus can lead to slower reaction times, missed opportunities, and poor decision-making. It’s like trying to play with one foot on the ice and the other off—you’re not going to be at your best.
The Power of the Present Moment
Being in the present moment means fully immersing yourself in what’s happening right now, without being distracted by thoughts of the past or future. When you’re in the now, your mind and body are working together seamlessly. You’re able to read the play, anticipate what’s coming next, and react with precision.
This state of being fully present is where your true potential shines. It’s where you can make those split- second decisions that lead to a big save or a game-winning goal. It’s where you’re fully in sync with your team, and everything just “clicks.” When you’re 100% energetically engaged in the game, you’re not just playing hockey—you’re living it.
The Negative Impact of Being Trapped in Your Thoughts
When you’re trapped in your thought world, your performance suffers. Overthinking creates doubt, hesitation, and fear—three things that can seriously undermine your confidence and resilience on the ice. Instead of trusting your instincts and skills, you start second-guessing every move. Instead of bouncing back from a mistake, you dwell on it and let it affect the rest of your game.
In short, overthinking pulls you out of the present moment and robs you of your ability to perform at your best. It makes you more vulnerable to stress and pressure, which can lead to a downward spiral in your performance.
How to Stay in the Now
Staying in the present moment takes practice, but it’s a skill you can develop. Here are a few tips to help you stay in the now during a game or tryout:
- Focus on your breath: When you catch yourself overthinking, take a deep breath and bring your attention back to the present. Your breath is always happening in the now, so it’s a great anchor.
- Reset after every shift: Treat each shift as a new opportunity. Whether you just made an amazing play or an error, let it go and focus on what’s next.
- Use positive self-talk: Remind yourself to stay in the moment with simple phrases like “Be here now,” or “One play at a time.”
- Visualize success: Before the game, visualize yourself staying calm, focused, and fully present, no matter what happens. This mental preparation can help you stay grounded during the game.
As a young hockey player or goalie, learning to stay in the present moment is one of the most valuable skills you can develop. It’s the key to unlocking your full potential on the ice and performing at your best, no matter the pressure. So next time you find yourself getting stuck in your thoughts, remember: the game is happening right now, and that’s where your focus needs to be. Stay in the moment and let your energy flow into every play—because that’s where greatness happens.
