Remember back when you were a kid and things were a whole lot more simple? When you went out and played just for the sheer fun of it?  Unfortunately, as people get older they tend to make things much more complicated and difficult.  Instead of keeping it simple and fun, athletes often cloud their minds with too many thoughts that often end up hurting their performances.  Thinking too much is one of the biggest problems that many student-athletes face.  People have a tendency to worry too much before competing, second guessing themselves, and playing the "What if I don't play well?" game. One of the best ways to prevent thinking too much is to remind yourself to keep it simple.  For example, before a pressure packed putt, former Arizona golfer and current professional David Berganio would tell himself, "Just put a good roll on it."  Berganio kept his putting simple and did not allow his mind to think about the outcome.

        Similarly, before Arizona Softball's Alison McCutcheon, the NCAA's all-time career hits leader, would step into the batter's box, she would remind herself, "Just put a good swing on a good pitch."  By keeping it simple, and not worrying about her batting average or what her coach would say if she struck out, Ali became one of the games best hitters.

        Finally, former football kicker Jon Prasuhn's ability to keep it simple gave Arizona one of it's most memorable wins against our arch-rival ASU.  With the score tied 28-28, only :22 seconds remaining, 76,000 rabid ASU fans in Sun Devil Stadium rooting against him, on T.V., and a possible ASU Bowl game on the line, Jon was faced with the biggest 37 yard kick of his career.  ASU called time out, hoping that Jon would focus on all the things I just mentioned and mentally complicate the whole situation. Instead, Jon simply told himself, "All I need to do is take care of the three yards in front of me." The team lined up for the field goal attempt.  The long snapper took care of the three yards in front of him.  The linemen took care of the three yards in front of them.  The holder took care of the three yards around him.  And Jon simply focused on the three yards between himself and the ball and stepped through to split the uprights and seal the thrilling Arizona win.

        Next time you are becoming a little stressed out or frustrated, remind yourself to keep it as simple as possible and have fun.  It worked well when you were a kid and it will have the same effect now.  For more ideas on helping you consistently perform to your potential, stop by and see me in McKale 109L or e-mail me at jjanssen@u.arizona.edu.