What is motivation in sport?
In sport psychology, motivation plays a key role in achieving high results. "Motivation" is the internal engine that lets athletes get through difficulty and reach the goals they have set. But for motivation to stay high, it helps to understand that it is made up of several parts: a clear vision of the goal, belief in your own abilities, support from coaches and the people close to you, and recognition and rewards.
Types of motivation
There are two main types of motivation: "extrinsic and intrinsic". Extrinsic motivation arises under the influence of rewards, praise or the wish to avoid punishment. It might be the drive to win a medal or to be recognised. Intrinsic motivation, by contrast, comes from within and is tied to the personal satisfaction of training and of pushing past your own limits.
How do you find your motivation?
To find your motivation in sport, start by working out what genuinely inspires you. Try to analyse how you feel before, during and after a session. Identify which aspects of your sport bring you the most satisfaction: it might be the sense of strength and confidence after training, or the self-organisation and discipline it demands.
Ways to build motivation
There are plenty of methods that will help you raise your motivation:
- Set goals: establish short-term and long-term goals. That helps you see the path clearly and keep track of your progress.
- Visualization: picture yourself reaching your goals. It is a powerful tool that engages your subconscious and drives you on.
- Positive support: surround yourself with people who believe in you and back you up.
- Reviewing successes and setbacks: reflection lets you draw a lesson from every situation and use it in future.
Examples of success driven by motivation
The stories of great athletes show how much motivation matters on the way to success. Michael Jordan, for instance, always found the strength to come back to the court and get better, despite countless setbacks.
Without motivation, outstanding results in sport are impossible. By finding the balance between external and internal sources of motivation, you will be able to work through every obstacle and reach a high level. Remember that every step toward the goal is a win, and your main task is to keep moving forward.
Not sure where to start? In a 15-20 minute diagnostic session we will work out the direction of work for your particular situation.