Core Confidence

Feeling like you can conquer the world when you step onto the field is one of the greatest thrills for any athlete. It’s that unwavering belief in yourself that often separates the good from the great. But here’s the thing: confidence isn’t just about flashy plays or winning games. Real confidence runs deeper — it’s about knowing you’ve got what it takes, no matter what.

There are two kinds of confidence: external and internal.

External confidence is what most people notice first. It’s the high you get from scoring a goal, hearing your coach cheer you on, or clinching a big victory. These moments feel amazing, no doubt. But relying solely on external validation is risky. Why? Because you can’t control everything that happens on the field. Take hitting a baseball, for instance. Sure, you can’t dictate where the pitcher throws the ball, but you can sharpen your swing and learn to read pitches better.

That’s where internal, or core, confidence comes in. It’s about honing your skills and mastering your mindset. Let’s say you’re a goalie. By perfecting your movements and decision-making, you build a rock-solid foundation of core confidence. And it’s not just about physical skills—it’s also about the way you think. Positive thoughts breed positive outcomes. Believe it or not, thinking positively is a skill you can develop, just like any other.

How do you know if you’re leaning too heavily on external confidence? Well, if you only feel good when you’re making big plays or getting praise from others, you might need to rethink things.

So, how do you cultivate core confidence?

First, focus on what you can control. You might not control the outcome of a game, but you can control how hard you train and how focused you stay. Dedicate yourself to improving those aspects, and you’ll find your confidence growing.

Second, don’t neglect the basics. Mastering fundamental skills gives you a sense of security in your abilities. Take the time to practice those basic techniques regularly, even when you think you’ve got them down pat.

And finally, train your brain to think positively. Quality thoughts lead to quality emotions, which lead to quality actions. It’s a cycle — if you can harness the power of positive thinking, you’ll find yourself performing at a higher level consistently.

Ultimately, core confidence isn’t about what you’ve done — it’s about what you believe you can do. It’s that unwavering faith in yourself that fuels your performance, no matter the outcome. So, next time you step onto the field, remember: confidence isn’t just about the big moments. It’s about the journey you’ve taken to get there and the belief you have in yourself along the way.