Tennis wasn’t always a source of joy for me. The cocktail of defeat, disappointment, frustration, anxiety, and anger that accompanied each match was overwhelming. Those days, filled with self-doubt and worry about ratings and rankings, marked some of the lowest points in my tennis life.
I often contemplated quitting tennis for football, a team sport where the pressure seemed more distributed, and support was more tangible. However, a pivotal moment during a club final in the Boys U16s against the defending champion, Mike changed everything. I was leading, a setup and 4/2, on the brink of victory, already basking in the anticipated glory and accolades. But then, I lost 6/4, 4/6, 1/6. The defeat was crushing, but it sparked a significant realization – I needed to become more resilient.
In the mid-nineties, resources on mental toughness were not as readily available as they are today. There were no Google searches or blogs to turn to, so I found myself delving into psychology books at the library. I learned about mindset and mindfulness and began to understand that my feelings of pressure and anxiety were normal.
To this day, I continue to explore books on mindset and resilience in athletes. Here are the key five lessons I’ve learned and applied:
1. Stay in the Moment
Accept your situation by letting go of the past and focusing on the present. What’s done is done, and the future is yet to be written. If you’re down 0-5, concentrate on winning the next point, the next moment. Worrying about the future only detracts from your current performance.
2. Embrace Accountability
It’s easy to make excuses when faced with tough situations. However, resilience comes from accepting that sometimes your opponent is just better, or there are aspects of your game that need improvement. Avoid the trap of excuses and own your performance.
3. Cultivate a Positive Mindset
When challenges arise, it’s natural to slip into negativity. Instead, try to focus on what you did well, even in a lost point. Maintain a positive attitude and remind yourself of past comebacks. Self-belief is crucial in building resilience.
4. Value Teamwork
Though tennis is an individual sport, having a supportive network is invaluable. Share your experiences and feelings with friends, family, and teammates. Their perspectives can normalize your struggles and provide comfort.
5. Become a Detective
Analyze your game like a detective. If things aren’t going your way, take time to understand why. Use breaks between points to strategize and adapt your play. Change your approach to alter the outcome of the match.
These lessons on resilience have been instrumental in my growth as a tennis player. They’ve taught me much more than just how to win matches; they’ve shown me how to maintain composure and find joy in the game.
I encourage you to embrace these lessons. You might just find that they not only improve your game but also enrich your experience on the court. Remember, resilience is a skill that, like any other, requires practice and patience.
For more insights and tips on tennis and resilience, check out My Coach Academy. I’ll be sharing more of my journey and strategies to help you thrive both on and off the court.
