Hey there, awesome young athletes and supportive sports parents! Welcome to this week’s Weekend Mental Performance Tip! With games and practices happening this weekend, I’m sharing a brand-new, easy trick that athletes in any sport can use to stay focused and calm during competition. At The Purpose Driven Athlete, I’ve spent over 20 years helping athletes ages 8 to 18—like baseball players learning to swing bravely, tennis players aiming to close out matches, and 8th graders working on keeping their cool—build their mental game. Today’s tip is all about a simple in-game reset practice called the Pause and Reset technique. Let’s get you ready to shine on the field, court, or rink this weekend, May 24–25!

What Is the Pause and Reset Technique?

The Pause and Reset is a quick trick you can do during a game to get back on track when things feel tough—like when you miss a shot, get frustrated, or feel nervous. It takes just 10 seconds and works for all sports, whether you’re playing baseball, tennis, soccer, basketball, or hockey. Here’s how it works:

• Pause: Stop for a moment (when it’s safe, like during a break or timeout).

• Take 1 Deep Breath: Breathe in for 4 seconds, out for 4 seconds.

• Say a Reset Word: Pick a word like “Reset!” or “Go!” and say it to yourself.

This simple practice helps you calm down, clear your mind, and focus on the next play, so you can play your best no matter what happens.

Why It Works for Young Athletes

I’ve seen this technique work wonders for athletes of all ages. A high school tennis player I coached used it during a match when she missed a shot and started to feel nervous—she paused, took a deep breath, said “Reset!” and hit a winning serve on her next point! An elementary age baseball player used it after striking out—he took a breath, said “Go!” and felt ready to catch the ball in the next inning. The Pause and Reset helps you:

• Stay Calm: The deep breath lowers your stress, so you don’t feel overwhelmed.

• Clear Your Mind: The reset word helps you let go of mistakes or nerves.

• Focus on the Next Play: It gets you back in the game, ready to do your best.

How to Use the Pause and Reset This Weekend

Here’s how you can try the Pause and Reset during your games this weekend.

Step 1: Pick Your Reset Word

• Before your game, choose a word that makes you feel ready, like “Reset!” “Go!” or “Next!” Write it on a small piece of paper or your wristband so you remember it.

Step 2: Practice During a Game

• When something tough happens—like missing a shot, feeling frustrated, or getting nervous—pause (when it’s safe, like between plays or during a timeout). Take 1 deep breath (4 seconds in, 4 seconds out), and say your reset word to yourself. Then get back in the game!

Step 3: Reflect After the Game

• After your game, think about how the Pause and Reset helped you. Did you feel calmer? More focused? Write down 1 thing you noticed (e.g., “I felt ready to play again!”). Tell your parents or coach about it—they’ll be proud of you!

A Practice for All Sports

The Pause and Reset works for any sport because it’s quick and simple. If you’re a soccer player, use it after missing a goal to get ready for the next run. If you’re a basketball player, try it during a timeout after a turnover. If you’re a hockey player, do it between shifts to clear your mind. It’s a tool you can use anywhere, anytime, to stay in the game and play your best.

Get Ready to Shine This Weekend!

The Pause and Reset is an easy way to take control during games, helping you stay calm, focused, and ready for the next play. This weekend, give it a try and see how it helps you shine in your sport. At The Purpose Driven Athlete, I’ve seen this technique help young athletes feel more confident and enjoy their games even more—and I know it can help you too!

Want to take your mental game to the next level? Reach out anytime for a free 15-minute discovery call with me today, and let’s create a personalized plan to make sports a fun, confident experience for your athlete!

Have a great weekend!

Coach Dave

The Purpose Driven Athlete
www.thepurposedrivenathlete.com
503-351-3812