Focus on the Right Things
November 01, 2019
You’ve probably heard that becoming a good athlete is 95% physical and 5% mental.
The percentages flip flop under the stress of competition. Success is 95% mental and 5% physical.
That means you must work very hard in practice on your conditioning and physical game. Once the training and technique are mastered and you move into competition, then you must make sure that you stay calm under pressure and keep yourself focused on the right things.
If you focus on the outcome when you perform, you’re probably going to trip and fall. Instead concentrate on each step, one step at a time, no missteps.
Every ounce of you must be in the moment. Be laser focused so you respond immediately to the situation that you find yourself in, and are ready to adjust at a moment’s notice to sudden and sometimes unexpected changes.
If your mind jumps ahead to the future, i.e., starts thinking about winning or losing or slips back to the past reliving a previous mistake or run, then you’ll end up being too uptight and distracted to perform to your potential.
It doesn’t mean that your performance will be flawless. It means that you can rebound quickly from your mistakes and not carry them into the next moment or event.
Laser focus produces confidence, poise, coolness, and certainty.
Leave a comment
Comments will be approved before showing up.
Also in Connolly
April 09, 2025
Tourists often visit our Horseshoe Quarter Circle ranch. Of course, us horses are the main attraction! Horses are herd animals by instinct. Several of us run together in the same pasture. One time, Twist, another horse in our pasture that has been here as long as I have, asked me, “Hey, have you ever wondered where cowboy hats came from?” I suppose he was prompted to wonder that because a bunch of dudes, wearing the craziest hats, were headed for us! I know they're a big deal in the West, but...
Continue Reading
April 08, 2025
In this blog, we follow Win or Lose, a horse embarking on its first saddle adventure. With a mix of excitement and uncertainty, Win or Lose faces the challenges of adjusting to the saddle, learning the basics of horseback riding, and overcoming moments of doubt. With patience, guidance, and a growing bond with his rider, the horse gradually gains confidence and skill. This heartwarming story highlights the journey of trust, perseverance, and the special connection between Win or Lose and his ...
Continue Reading
April 07, 2025
You know your gear says a lot about you—but have you ever wondered what your horse thinks about it? 'Win or Lose' has spent years under a saddle and has a pretty solid opinion on everything from hats to boots to saddles.
Continue Reading
