8 Things Insanely Consistent Athletes Do That You Don’t

Summary

In this video, the coach highlights the habits of consistently high-performing athletes, focusing on their mindset, training methods, and the mental game. From staying sharp year-round, setting ambitious goals, and developing game intelligence, to embracing challenges with optimism and tactical boredom, these athletes excel in both small moments and high-pressure situations. The video also emphasizes the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people who reinforce belief and commitment, helping athletes maintain focus and consistency over time.

Takeaways

• 😀 Consistent athletes train year-round, maintaining 80% effort and pushing themselves 20% of the time, allowing them to perform at their best from the start of the season.
• 😀 A relentless competitive mindset, applied to every aspect of life (not just sports), helps athletes stay focused and improve. It fuels a never-give-up attitude during challenging moments in a game.
• 😀 Elite athletes set big, bold goals that others might deem unrealistic. These ambitious goals act as a guiding 'north star' and push them to be their best.
• 😀 Consistency in performance requires mental training, not just physical. Top athletes train their brain to make quicker, better decisions during games.
• 😀 Staying in the present moment is key to consistent performance. Athletes who quickly recover from mistakes and focus on the next play are more successful in the long run.
• 😀 Infectious optimism plays a huge role in consistency. A positive mindset, even after setbacks, helps athletes bounce back and keeps them engaged during tough times.
• 😀 The circle of people surrounding an athlete matters. Those who believe in them, especially during tough times, are critical for maintaining long-term consistency.
• 😀 Mastering tactical boredom is essential for consistent performance. Embracing repetitive training, even when it's dull, builds mental toughness and focus.
• 😀 Elite athletes don’t just focus on their skills; they also focus on their game intelligence, training their brain to anticipate situations and make decisions faster.
• 😀 Consistent athletes don’t rely on physical warm-ups to get into game mode. Their mental and physical readiness is built throughout the year, ensuring they're always prepared.
• 😀 Setting goals that challenge an athlete’s limits fuels long-term focus and helps them stay motivated, even on tough days when motivation might wane.

Q & A

Why do some athletes perform consistently while others don't?

Consistent athletes think differently, train differently, and approach their sport with higher standards. They maintain a steady focus and mindset, never relying on the time of year to dictate their training intensity.

What is the key difference between the two athletes mentioned at the beginning of the script?

The first athlete waits for preseason to get fit, while the second athlete maintains his fitness and readiness throughout the off-season, ensuring he starts strong. Consistent athletes don't train based on the time of year but according to their personal standards.

How does relentless competitiveness affect an athlete's performance?

Relentless competitiveness, whether in sport or other activities, builds a mindset that refuses to accept losing. It helps athletes push through tough situations, like being down in a game, by fostering a 'never say die' attitude.

Why is it important for athletes to set big, audacious goals?

Setting big, audacious goals forces athletes to level up in all aspects—training, mindset, and habits. These bold goals create a north star that keeps them focused, even during rough times, preventing them from playing small.

How do the best athletes train their brains, and why is it essential?

Top athletes train their brains to improve game intelligence, decision-making, and anticipation. This is achieved through tools and techniques like mental exercises and game simulations, helping them make faster and better decisions during actual games.

What does the 'next play mindset' refer to, and how does it benefit athletes?

The 'next play mindset' refers to athletes' ability to quickly move on from mistakes or successes without dwelling on them. This mental clarity allows them to stay present and focused, avoiding emotional spirals that could disrupt performance.

How does optimism impact an athlete's consistency?

Optimism helps athletes maintain belief in a positive outcome even after setbacks. It prevents negative spirals and encourages them to stay engaged and work through challenges, which is crucial for maintaining consistent performance.

Why is the support system critical for an athlete's consistency?

A strong support system, including coaches, teammates, and friends who believe in the athlete's potential, is crucial. During tough times, this support provides reinforcement and helps the athlete stay motivated, ensuring continued focus and confidence.

What does 'tactical boredom' mean, and why is it important for long-term success?

Tactical boredom refers to embracing the monotonous and repetitive aspects of training, such as long solo rides or routines. Athletes who master boredom can maintain focus and mental toughness, which is crucial during long, uneventful stretches of competition or training.

What is the main challenge of consistency in athletics, and how can athletes overcome it?

The main challenge is the inherent boredom and repetition in consistent performance. Athletes overcome it by embracing routine, setting high standards, and staying mentally engaged, thus building resilience to push through repetitive training and competition cycles.