The relationship between self-confidence and performance
Self-confidence plays a crucial role in the performance of athletes, whether positively or negatively affecting their abilities. While some athletes naturally possess self-confidence, others grapple with it throughout their athletic careers, influencing their overall performance. The presence of even a small amount of self-doubt can lead to a decline in an athlete’s performance. Self-confidence, defined as the belief in one’s ability to successfully execute a desired behaviour, task or activity proves to be a determining factor in an athlete’s success.
Research demonstrates the subjective nature of self-confidence, revealing its profound impact. Using two soccer teams as an example. It was evident that winners exhibited higher confidence scores than losers the day before a match. This indicates that a team’s higher self-confidence positively correlates with better performance. In contrast, losers, lacking confidence, experienced increased anxiety, leading to doubts about their abilities and ultimately poorer performance.
The influence of self-confidence during sporting events varies based on factors such as the duration of the sport and whether it is a team or individual activity. Short-duration and individual sports show a stronger correlation between confidence and performance compared to longer-duration and team sports. For instance, penalty kicks in soccer demonstrated that self-confidence did not statistically affect the players’ performance. However, in team sports, collective self-confidence can override individual doubts.
Strategies to bolster self-confidence include the use of self-talk. Motivational self-talk, can enhance performance, boost self-confidence, and reduce cognitive anxiety. Additionally, employing an Imagery Training Program (ITP) has proven effective in increasing confidence among players and coaches. This technique involves mental simulation through visualization, focusing on key characteristics like modality, perspective, angle, agency, and deliberation.
Goal setting and mapping, emphasizing performance and process goals over outcome goals, provide a sense of control and attention to the task. Creating small, realistic goals contributes to building momentum and sustaining durable confidence. Physical preparation is also highlighted as a vital component, as strength and conditioning contribute to mental fortitude. Muscular strength, endurance, speed, agility, power, balance, coordination, and flexibility should be addressed consistently throughout the year.
Self-confidence is not a constant and takes continuous development and mental application. Building self-confidence tends to improve performance.
