Mental Strength..and how to aquire it!

[John (OSF)]

Thanks everyone,
Your comments are interesting and i'll be looking into this subject further, (along the lines suggested)

All the best

John

[addo]

Someone lent me a small paperback entitled"understanding winning archery".There's a bit towards the back of the book which deals with the problem you describe.In fact the whole book deals with mindset more than technique.I don't think you'll see it in a library,but i've found it on the interweb for about £8.Its not long winded so i think i'll keep it in my bow case just in case any problem arise during a tourny.IMO its a good book of reference that motivates with little pearls of wisdom.

[clickerati]

I really like that book, too, Paul. I think it's high time I reread it.

[Furface]

Originally Posted by ASW1973

... the only way to develop an increase in mental toughness or deal with issues of panic is through understanding what the issues are through counselling and specific unique strategies. ....

Cannot agree more! For any sort of "mental attack" to affect you, it will have hooked in to your sub-conscious (usually, though it can be conscious) prompting reactions that are unexpected in the situation. To be able to cope with the unexpected reaction, you need to realise where those hooks are hooked-in. A trained coach can help here, but, as with everything psychological, be aware that the muddy pond, once stirred up, may need higher-level help to clean up. But do not worry - everyone has these hook-points, and seeking help does not mean you are different, except that you are sensible enough to realise you could benefit from help.

[addo]

Originally Posted by clickerati

I really like that book, too, Paul. I think it's high time I reread it.

Like you Leigh,i've been a bit archery'd out of late.Like you also,i've had a bit of a rest which has helped .But having read the book this week,i really am "champing at the bit" again.Its not overly complex.It simply reawakens what i think most archers know but tend to forget.I wish i had read it sooner.I've just googled the title,and it seems to still be widely available,so i'm gonna order it later.Thanks to Tommy B for lending me it

After a week or so in the doldrums,i'm now in "bring it on mode".Addo for BM this season me thinks

[Paul120]

This sort of thing has never bothered me as the only way another person can affect my score is to physically shoot my arrows for me. It's a bit like scoring incorrect values for arrows shot or any sort of cheating. let them ruin there own day and reputation. They are not being big or clever but you can be.