By Millicent Sykes
I stop to think about the ways in which I keep myself from taking action
Many call it fear
Sometimes, it is felt in the body, causing the person to physically stop because of overstimulation
Sometimes, it is a thought that seems so frightening the person begins to dissociate from reality, becoming transfix by the mere thought of the possible validity of the thought
Sometimes, it is an emotion so strong that no matter the person’s cognitive guards and protections, or current physical ability, the person is consumed
“You shall not pass,” becomes the reigning mantra of the psyche
And, as most athletes know, once the thought becomes internalized and solidified into the psyche, the emotions and body then follow
How detrimental our thoughts can become…
Shall we stay stuck here?
Yes… okay, it is something you will adjust to and become comfortable with.
No… cool, find a distraction, begin to deepen your understanding with the fear, begin to challenge this fear
As always, you are not alone
Make your decision and the rest will follow
Good luck to you!
Mindset of an Athlete 