This could be one of the greatest mental tips ever given to me by Roadplayer Bill.
I SHOULD have won.
I SHOULD have beat them.
I SHOULD have made that shot.
I SHOULD be out.
The word “should” is an ego protection that allows you to deal with a failure. Instead of “should” replace it with “could”. “SHOULD” allows us to believe that somewhere in the stars it is written “that game, shot, or victory is ours”.
I COULD be out here if I do what I know how to do: This keeps us aware and in the present. It reminds us that the game is not ours until the last ball is down. Nothing is owed to us.
I’ve noticed over the years when I think I’m out something odd happens and suddenly I’m standing on my head trying to figure it out. When I say I COULD be out, it has me looking for traps that could make the out much tougher. Try the “could” approach and notice how aware and alert it keeps you. Enjoy the game.
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