MindStrong

#162 - Aaron Walsh | Integrating Mental Skills

Jun 13, 2023

Aaron Walsh, an experienced Performance Coach, discusses strategies for developing mental skills in teams. They cover the role of mental toughness in elite sports, athletes taking ownership of their careers, and why psychology degrees aren't necessary for strengthening mental skills. They also explore the challenges of athlete careers, the importance of mental skills training, and the impact of the fear of failure on innovation and creativity.

01:05:53

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Episode guests

Aaron Walsh

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

Developing mental skills requires coaches to connect with athletes personally and take accountability for their mental game.

Integrating mental skills into teams is important, and coaches need to buy into mental training.

To successfully implement mental performance programs, teams need a clear model and framework that aligns with their goals, with integration and support from the head coach.

Deep dives

The Importance of Building Mental Skills

Developing mental skills is crucial for athletes, but it varies for each athlete. It is essential for coaches to connect with athletes on a personal level and take accountability for their mental game. Integrating mental skills into teams is important, and coaches need to buy into mental training. Coaches also need to understand the unique demands of each sport and position to provide effective mental support.

Introduction

3min

Exploring the Importance of Mental Skills in Sports

14min

The Challenges and Balance of Athlete Careers

17min

The Importance of Mental Skills Training

22min

The Need for Clear Examples and Practical Guidance in Mental Skills Training

4min

The Fear of Failure and Its Impact on Innovation and Creativity

2min

Learning from Stories and Putting Knowledge into Practice

5min

Aaron Walsh is an experienced Performance Coach who primarily focuses on developing leadership, culture, and mental performance programs for teams. Walsh is currently working with Chiefs in Super Rugby as well as consulting with Harlequins, Scottish Rugby, Texas Rangers, and Basketball New Zealand. He has also worked with various national teams and currently coaches multiple corporate leadership teams to create and maintain a high-performance working environment.

In this episode, expect to learn how coaches can incorporate strategies for developing mental skills in teams. We cover the role of mental toughness in elite sports, why athletes need to take ownership of their careers, and why you don't need a psychology degree to strengthen your team's mental skills.

[00:00] Introduction

[02:20] Aaron's Interest in the Mental Side of Sports

[06:30] When Aaron Started Working with Teams

[10:22] Athletes Need a Coach Who Cares

[15:32] The Benefits of Athletes Creating Identities Outside Of Sports

[19:10] Why Athletes Cannot Live Normal Lives

[22:00] Elite Athletes Make Sacrifices

[26:03] Aaron's Framework for Working with Athletes

[27:31] Accountability and Taking Ownership of Your Career

[34:33] Integration of Mental Skills into Teams

[37:40] Why Mental Skills Training is Important For Athletes

[39:04] High-Performance Sporting Environments