Not Getting The Game Time You Expected? How To Prepare For Your Opportunity

SummaryIn this episode, Andrew Crome addresses a common challenge faced by athletes when they transition to a higher level of competition. Many athletes who have previously been stars on their teams find themselves struggling to adapt when they move up, often feeling overlooked and confused by their reduced playing time. Crome emphasizes that this experience is not a personal failure but rather a natural part of growth. He introduces the concept of 'hinge moments,' which are pivotal opportunities that can arise unexpectedly, and stresses the importance of being mentally and physically prepared for these moments.Crome provides practical strategies for athletes to navigate this transition effectively. He encourages a shift in focus from status—such as starting positions and scoring—to standards, which include daily training habits and personal improvement. By setting controllable goals and maintaining a positive mindset, athletes can build resilience and readiness for their next opportunity. The episode concludes with actionable steps for listeners to implement in their training routines, reinforcing the idea that growth often occurs outside of immediate rewards and recognition.Keywordsathlete mindset, mental performance, hinge moments, sports psychology, athlete transition, motivation, training habits, confidence, personal growth, sports coachingTakeaways"You're just in the early chapter of growth at a higher level.""The bench is not where your career ends. The bench is where a lot of careers are built.""Opportunity doesn't reward potential. It rewards preparation.""When you've always been the best, you can accidentally start believing that being the best is the price of admission to feel confident.""Start measuring success by your standards, your values."Sound bites"New level, new learning curve.""Opportunity doesn't reward potential. It rewards preparation.""If you're moving up a level and your role changes, it doesn't mean that you're failing."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Athlete Transitions01:51 Understanding the Hinge Moment04:09 Shifting Focus: Status vs. Standards05:55 Mental Mythbusters: Growth Without Game Time06:29 Preparing for Your Hinge Moment07:58 Five Ways to Prepare for Opportunity12:25 Wrapping Up: Embracing Change and Growth