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August 7, 2025 38 mins

Join me as I explore the emotional and psychological challenges faced by pickleball players, particularly anxiety and stress during matches (and in life!).

We'll discuss the brain's response to these feelings and walk through the 7 R's method for helping you manage your thoughts and emotions effectively. The conversation also delves into the impact of expectations on performance and provides practical tips for resetting during matches to maintain focus and composure. Overall, the episode emphasizes the importance of mental health in sports and offers actionable strategies for you to enhance their experience on and off the court.

Takeaways

  • Anxiety can manifest physically on the court.
  • The amygdala triggers stress responses during matches.
  • Expectations can lead to frustration and panic.
  • The 7 R's method helps manage thoughts and emotions.
  • Recognizing toxic thoughts is the first step to change.
  • Replacing negative thoughts with positive affirmations is crucial.
  • Practicing mindfulness can improve performance.
  • Resetting your posture can enhance confidence.
  • Breathing techniques can calm the nervous system.
  • Your identity is not defined by your performance.
  • Mastering Your Mind on the Pickleball Court
  • Overcoming Anxiety in Sports
  • "Every serve is a new opportunity."
  • "Expect to work, not to win."
  • "Name it to tame it."


Chapters

00:00 Understanding Performance Anxiety in Pickleball

02:33 The Brain's Response to Stress and Anxiety

02:46 Recognizing and Resisting Toxic Thoughts

03:11 Replacing Negative Thoughts with Positive Ones

05:39 The 7 Rs for Managing Stress in Sports

08:14 Practical Strategies for Mental Resilience

11:14 The Importance of Focus and Mindset

13:39 Training Your Mind for Success

15:30 Reinforcing Positive Thought Patterns

17:19 Calming the Mind: The Power of Thought Replacement

19:37 The Importance of Drilling: Mindset Over Match

21:05 Managing Expectations: The Silent Stress Trigger

25:59 Healthy Expectations: Preparing for the Unexpected

27:17 Five Ninja Tips: Resetting Your Mind During Play

37:10 Rewiring the Brain: Building New Neural Pathways

🚀 FREEBIE ALERT: Grab your own copy of the 7 R's right here!


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DISCLAIMER: The Choose 2 Think Inspirational Podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. Please consult your physician or doctor for all medical advice and counsel.

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