Positive Affirmation and Mental Imagery Myths

Key Points

• It’s important to believe you have the ability to win a match, but it’s a myth to think that you should go in thinking that you will win the match
• This belief can cause you to “crumble” emotionally if things don’t go well
• Positive affirmations can sometimes work and make you feel better in the moment, but they can also add to the pressure you feel on the court
• Develop acceptance with pursuit goals
• The outcome is not a goal that you can control
• Use visualization to imagine yourself responding well to challenges and to increase your level of acceptance once you’re on the court