Coaching Mind's Podcast: Perform at your best! #142 - Confidence Pt 3: Identity, Body Language & Self-Talk for Athletes
Sep 17, 2025
Explore the fascinating dynamics of confidence in athletes through identity, body language, and self-talk. Discover how choosing who you want to be can drive your performance, illustrated by Victor Oladipo's inspiring comeback. Learn the power of nonverbal cues and how they impact team dynamics and personal morale. Coaches gain insights into modeling positivity and creating tailored self-talk strategies. Finally, find actionable plans to reshape beliefs and enhance your mental game on and off the field!
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Oladipo's Comeback Shot
- Victor Oladipo returned from injury, missed six threes but still took the game-tying shot. He drained it and the crowd erupted, illustrating chosen confidence in action.
Identity Shapes Performance
- Self-schema theory explains how athletes' identities shape perception and behavior. Athletes who see themselves as performers under pressure act in alignment with that identity.
Use Cognitive Dissonance With Go-To Lines
- Use cognitive dissonance intentionally by pairing beliefs with bold statements. Say a go-to statement (e.g., "I put in the time I put in the work") to push your brain to align behavior with identity.