Positive Psychology

Positive Psychology

Good Morning!

As my office starts to take shape and the sun starts to shine, I can't help but get really excited about helping out athletes this summer. I thought I'd introduce you all to "Positive Psychology". Like Sport Psychology, Positive Psychology is a fairly modern addition the psychology scene. There are some similarities between the two and they most certainly compliment each other.

Positive Psychology is the study of happiness.  Psychology has traditionally focused on dysfunction—people with mental illness or other issues—and how to treat it. Positive psychology, in contrast, is a field that examines how ordinary people can become happier and more fulfilled. (definition taken from Psychology Today)

I stumbled across this article written by Larsen Jensen, an Olympic swimmer and Navy SEAL. It's a fantastic peak into the practical application of positive psychology. Here are some Cliff-Notes:

 

  1. Set very specific goals
    1. "If you want to achieve anything meaningful, it won't be an easy journey.... Don't hit the snooze button!... Don't just set goals: set very specific goals." - Larsen Jensen
  2. Focus on the essential
    1. "Our society has become obsessed with the undisciplined pursuit of more..." - Greg McKeown
  3. Risk embarrassment
    1. ACCOUNTABILITY: Make a commitment to one person... or a few!
    2. If your "Team" doesn't know what you want to accomplish, how will they be able to support you? (Team = Parents, Coach, friends, teammates, spouses,etc)
  4. Be positive about SOMETHING every day
    1. Tee up the small victories on a daily basis
  5. Take small breaks after key milestones
    1. Avoid burnout.... it can happen even when things are going well.
  6. Stay in your own lane mentally!!!
    1. Focus on your race, not your opponents. You've worked hard to prepare YOUR race... don't let who is next to you be a distraction.
  7. Know when to make your goal putting one foot in front of the other
    1. Creating a timeline is great, but don't let that time line destroy your endeavor. Be flexible and fare to yourself and your journey.=

I challenge all of you to think about these highlights as they pertain not only to your athletic career, but to school, work and daily life. The principals that emerge from Sport and Positive Psychology help to create a meaningful, productive and ENJOYABLE life. 

Until next time,

Lindy