Approaches to develop the emotional factor
The emotional factor is all about a performer’s feelings and how these can influence the outcome of any activity. Developing the emotional factor could involve:
- developing confidence
- developing resilience
- developing self-control
Developing confidence
Approach: Positive self-talk
A performer giving themself a ‘talking to’ is a very well-established way of raising confidence levels. The performer has to ignore any negative thoughts by telling themselves how successful they can, should and will be.
| Approach | Organisation | Progression and challenge |
| Positive self-talk | Identify key words or phrases to use before, during or after performance. | Ensure words/phrases chosen encourage positive feelings. For example, words or phrases from a coach or trainer can be used to deal with a different opponent or performance environment. In rugby, if a team had to play against a bigger and stronger opposition, key phrases might focus on staying positive and continuing to keep trying. |
| Approach | Positive self-talk |
|---|---|
| Organisation | Identify key words or phrases to use before, during or after performance. |
| Progression and challenge | Ensure words/phrases chosen encourage positive feelings. For example, words or phrases from a coach or trainer can be used to deal with a different opponent or performance environment. In rugby, if a team had to play against a bigger and stronger opposition, key phrases might focus on staying positive and continuing to keep trying. |
Question
Why might positive self-talk improve confidence?
Repeating positive words and phrases in your mind at times of pressure can help stop negative thoughts. This means feelings are more positive and confidence stays high.
More guides on this topic
- Knowledge and understanding - Mental factors
- Knowledge and understanding - Emotional factors
- Knowledge and understanding - Social factors
- Knowledge and understanding - Physical factors
- Key planning information
- Performance development - Mental factors
- Performance development - Emotional factors
- Performance development - Physical factors
- Investigating performance
- Tracking and Assessing Progress
