Social Media vs. Your Hockey Dreams: Who’s Winning the Battle?
By Coach Walter Aguilar | Mindset Coach
If you want to become the best hockey player or goalie you can be, you already know it takes hard work, focus, and consistency. But there’s something else that can quietly shape how you play, think, and feel, and it’s sitting in your pocket right now.
Your phone can be your greatest tool or your biggest distraction. Social media can either help you stay inspired or slowly drain your confidence, your focus, and even your love for the game.
Imagine stepping on the ice with a clear, confident mind, ready to enjoy the game and give your best every shift. Now imagine showing up distracted because you stayed up too late scrolling, comparing yourself to other players, or worrying about likes and comments. The truth is, your mindset in those moments determines how well you perform.
When you take charge of your social media habits, you’re not just limiting screen time. You’re protecting your joy, sharpening your focus, and developing the mindset of a champion.
How Social Media Can Quietly Hurt Your Game
Social media is full of highlight reels. Everyone looks like they’re training harder, scoring more goals, or getting more recognition than you. That can make you feel like you’re falling behind or not good enough.
It also trains your brain to constantly seek quick hits of attention and excitement. Over time, that can make it harder to stay focused in practice, listen to your coaches, or bounce back after a mistake. And if you’re losing sleep from scrolling, your energy and alertness take a hit too.
All of this adds up. It’s not just about what you post. It’s about what it’s costing you mentally, emotionally, and physically.
Five Ways to Regain Control of Your Hockey Mindset
1. Pay Attention to How You Feel
After you go on social media, check in with yourself. Do you feel motivated, or do you feel jealous, anxious, or distracted? That awareness is your first step to change.
2. Set Real Boundaries
Decide when and where you’ll use your phone. Try putting it away 30 minutes before bed. Your brain and body need rest to recover so you can perform your best the next day.
3. Focus on Your Own Progress
Stop comparing yourself to other players. Write down one small win every day, like a save you made, a good pass, or a moment you pushed through frustration. Progress happens one rep, one shift, one day at a time.
4. Practice Being Present
Spend time each day without your phone. Talk to your teammates, hang out with your family, or do something that relaxes you. Being present helps you perform in the zone when it matters most.
5. Get Support When You Need It
If managing your phone feels hard, talk to your coach, parent, or teammate. Every great player has help. Asking for support isn’t weakness. It’s wisdom.
Final Thoughts
You’re in control of your mindset. By taking charge of your social media habits, you’re training your brain to stay focused, confident, and grounded. That’s what separates good players from great ones.
Remember, your real competition isn’t on Instagram. It’s the version of you from yesterday. Keep showing up, keep learning, and keep growing.
If you want help building a stronger mindset and creating better habits, reach out. I’ll help you learn how to protect your focus, your joy, and your love for the game because that’s what real success looks like.
