3 Reasons Athletes Play Great in Practice But Struggle in Games

In this episode, I explain why athletes often play great in practice but struggle in games. I break down the three biggest mental reasons this happens—fear of making mistakes, overthinking with a practice mindset, and trying to over-control performance. I also share a simple mental shift you can use to start performing more freely and confidently in competition.🧠 Mental Performance Coaching for Athletes:If you struggle with overthinking, fear of mistakes, or performing worse in games than in practice, I work with athletes through my 12-week one-on-one mental performance coaching program. Together we build confidence, reduce performance anxiety, and help you trust your instincts so you can perform freely under pressure.Learn more: https://www.successstartswithin.com/mental-performance-coaching/In this episode you’ll learn:• Why fear of making mistakes causes athletes to hold back in games• How a “practice mindset” leads to overthinking during competition• Why trying to control performance actually makes it worse• The difference between thinking and trusting during competition• A simple way to be more present and perform freely in games Work with me!🧠 1-1 Mental Performance Coaching for Athletes: https://www.successstartswithin.com/mental-performance-coaching/👉 Confident Competitor Academy: Go from playing with fear & anxiety to playing with confidence in just 6 weeks!👉 Mentally Tough Kid Course (for youth athletes)📖 Mind Games Book: https://a.co/d/gXZfORN📖 Athlete Mental Training Book: https://a.co/d/bfojamYFree Training: Top 5 Mental Mistakes Athletes Make*This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute psychological or medical treatment. I am a mental performance coach, not a licensed psychologist. For clinical concerns, consult a licensed professional.