How to I Stay Focused and Memorize the
Track?
Motocross Racer:
I have been ridding now for about three years. My question is
regarding, getting my mind on track. Basically how to focus on the matter
at hand, rather than thinking about problems or mistakes in the last
moto. Being more confident I guess is the main concern. This would keep
me more focused overall. I seem to keep what happened in the past as
an anchor to keep a positive attitude towards the future.
Dr. Cohn’s Answer:
I look at focus and confidence as two different issues. However,
it seem like you fragile confidence is causing you to dwell too much
on past problems or mistakes. Yes, confidence does come from past success
for many athletes, but in your case, doubt is coming from past errors
or poor motos.
I talk a lot with my students about getting off the “confidence roller
coaster.” Confidence is something that develops over years and
years of training and racing. For example, if you have been racing
for 6 years, how long do you think you have been working on your confidence?
6 years! Do not forget this simple idea. Next time you have a setback,
you need to take a long-term approach to your confidence and remember
all the successful motos you have raced. Do not let on moto or mistakes
cause you to flush 6 years of training confidence down the toilet!