0 0

As an athlete, an injury can be a major setback. The road to recovery can be long and challenging, both physically and mentally. One of the key factors that can impact an athlete’s recovery is their mindset. Below are three mindset options that athletes can adopt during the recovery process. How does each mindset positively or negatively impact recovery?

1) Fear/Panicking Mindset

When athletes suffer from an injury, fear, and panic are emotions that will set in. Athletes may worry about their ability to return to their pre-injury level of performance. They may fear re-injury and the possibility of never being able to return to their sport. This mindset can be detrimental to recovery. It can lead to increased stress levels and anxiety, which can slow down the healing process.

In the fear/panicking mindset, the statement “I won’t” can have a negative impact on recovery from an injury. This statement can indicate a lack of belief in your ability to recover and can lead to a self-fulfilling prophecy. When you say “I won’t,” you are limiting the idea of recovery and may not take the steps to heal properly. This can result in a slower recovery process or even a re-injury.

Shift the Mindset

To shift from a fear/panicking mindset to a more productive mindset, athletes can focus on using “I can” statements instead of “I won’t” statements. “I can” statements indicate a belief in one’s ability to recover. For example, saying “I can do my physical therapy exercises today” or “I can take a step forward in my recovery” can help shift the focus to the things that are moving you forward.

To make this shift, athletes can also try positive self-talk and visualization techniques. This involves visualizing oneself successfully completing a rehabilitation exercise or returning to their sport. By focusing on positive self-talk and visualization, athletes can build their confidence and belief in their ability to recover. So, this shift can ultimately speed up the recovery process.

2) Struggling/Inconsistent Mindset

Some athletes may struggle to come to terms with their injury and may feel inconsistent in their recovery process. They may have good days and bad days, and this can be frustrating. Athletes who adopt this mindset may feel like they are not making progress and may become less motivated. This mindset can lead to athletes may be less likely to stick to their rehabilitation plan.

With a struggling/inconsistent mindset, the statement “I wish I could” or “I want to” can have a negative impact on the recovery process. These statements can indicate a lack of confidence in your ability to recover and a feeling of helplessness. When you say “I wish I could” or “I want to,” you are expressing a desire to recover but may not believe that you have the ability to do so. This can lead to a lack of motivation and may make it harder to stick to a rehabilitation plan.

Shift the mindset

To shift from a struggling/inconsistent mindset to a more positive mindset, athletes can focus on using “I did” or “I am” statements instead of “I wish I could” or “I want to” statements. “I did” or “I am” statements show a belief in one’s ability to recover and a commitment to taking the necessary steps toward healing. For example, saying “I did complete my physical therapy exercises today” or “I am making progress in my recovery” can help shift the focus to the actions that can be taken to continue moving forward.

To make this shift, athletes can also try goal-setting and focus on small wins. By setting achievable goals and celebrating small wins, athletes can build their confidence and motivation to continue on the path toward recovery. Seeking support from a physical therapist, coach, or a supportive friend or family member can also be helpful in maintaining motivation and accountability during the recovery process.

3) Confident Mindset

Athletes who have a confident mindset during their recovery process are more likely to have a positive outcome. They believe in their ability to recover and trust the process. This mindset can lead to increased motivation and dedication to the rehabilitation plan. Athletes with a confident mindset are more likely to adhere to their treatment plan, and this can speed up the recovery process.

A confident mindset creates a positive attitude towards the recovery process, which can help to reduce stress levels and anxiety. This positive attitude can create a sense of hope, which is essential for maintaining motivation during a long recovery process. With a confident mindset, you are more likely to trust the process and the expertise of the medical team. You understand that your recovery will take time, and you have faith in the prescribed treatment plan. This trust can make you more willing to adhere to your rehabilitation plan, which is critical for successful recovery.

Importance of confidence

With this mindset, you are more likely to push yourself to work harder and stick to your rehabilitation plan even when it gets challenging. You are determined to return to your pre-injury level of performance and are willing to put in the work required to achieve that goal. When you trust the process, adhere to your treatment plan, and maintain motivation, you are more likely to see progress and make gains in your recovery. This can lead to a faster recovery time and a quicker return to their sport.

To shift into the confident mindset make sure that your brain is playing mental Follow the Leader instead of playing catch-up. The ups and downs that are associated with the injury-healing process are a little less damaging. The valleys of the Follow the Leader mindset can be as high as the peaks of the Catch-up mindset. They will also be slightly better than those of a standard recovery.

Final Thoughts

The mindset that an athlete adopts during their recovery from an injury can have a significant impact on their ability to recover successfully. A fear/panicking or struggling/inconsistent mindset can lead to negative emotions, lack of motivation, and slower recovery. While a confident mindset can lead to increased motivation, adherence to the rehabilitation plan, and faster recovery.

Also, your mind will be going through each one of these stages so expect to say “I can’t”. But, also demand your mind to say “I can”. By using positive self-talk, visualization techniques, setting achievable goals, celebrating small wins, and seeking support from professionals or loved ones, athletes can shift their mindset towards a more positive and productive one, ultimately leading to a successful recovery and return to their sport.

*Medical Disclaimer*

As usual, do everything with caution. Check-in with your physical therapist or athletic trainer. Make sure that you are not pushing yourself past the limits that they have setup for you. Imagery can help you have a better recovery. But, if you go too hard that may stale your progress.