From Practice to Matches: Train Pressure to Build Resilience

Key Points

• Performance Goals Drive Growth:
  Focusing on how you play (e.g., shot selection, movement, serve placement) leads to better match performance and more consistent improvement.

• Outcome Goals Create Pressure:
  When the emphasis is only on winning or losing—often from parents or coaches—it adds anxiety and distracts from the actual game.

• Process Over Result:
  Players improve more when they’re thinking about what to do on court rather than just trying to win.

• Better Self-Evaluation:
  Players focused on performance goals give detailed post-match feedback (e.g., “My serve was great but returns were weak”), which helps with targeted adjustments.

• Long-Term Success:
  Performance-based thinking builds better habits, reduces pressure, and supports lasting development—especially in young players.