Most racers and coaches think that, to get the results you want, you need to focus on those results. But, here’s the paradox: Having an outcome focus actually reduces the chances of your achieving the results you want.
Here’s why. First, when does the outcome of a ski race occur? After you cross the finish line, of course. If you’re focused on the outcome, you aren’t focused on the process, namely, what you need to do to get from the start to the finish as fast as you can.
Second, what makes you nervous at the start, the process or the outcome? The chances are it’s the outcome, more specifically, a bad outcome such as a slow time or a DNF, both of which translate into failure. The bottom line is that when you focus on the outcome, you are far less likely to get the outcome you want.
In contrast, when you focus on the process, you increase your chances of getting the results you want. If you focus on the process, that is, what you need to do to ski your fastest, how are you likely going to ski? Pretty fast, you can assume. And if you ski fast, you’re more likely to achieve the result you wanted in the first place.
So, on race day, acknowledge that you want to get a great result. Then, immediately shift your focus onto what you need to do ski your fastest. When you make this shift from results to fast, you are on your way to getting the results you want.
Want to learn more?
Download my new Prime Ski Racing: Psychology of Championship Skiing e-book. It introduces you to a new way of looking at the mental side of our sport. This e-book is filled with powerful lessons that racers and coaches can benefit from.
