Читать книгу Sports Psychology For Dummies - Leif H. Smith - Страница 85

Burnout is one of the more common experiences among athletes today. Athletes are burning out earlier than ever before, and every year many athletes leave their sports as a result of burnout.

Why do athletes burn out?

 They’re expected to play sports year-round — there is no off-season. Young athletes especially are not mentally or physically equipped to handle such demanding schedules.

 Athletes are specializing in one sport younger than ever. As a result, they play their sport year-round, without letting up, which takes a toll on their motivation.

 The physical training in sports has become much more demanding and rigorous. You’re training longer and harder, and these physical demands weigh down not only your muscles, but your mental and emotional energy, as well as your motivation.

To stave off burnout, take care of your physical body with adequate diet and sleep. Getting enough rest and proper nutrition can have a strong influence on your emotional energy levels.

Take time off from your sport when you can. If it’s during your off-season, you can afford to take more time off, maybe even a couple of weeks. The world won’t end if you take some time off.

Give your mind and heart “rests” as well, through meditation, imagery, or breathing practice. Take naps! Naps can be one of the best ways to refresh your mind, body, and motivation.

When burnout is knocking at the door, reach out to people you can trust — a family member, a friend, a mentor, or a sports psychologist. These people can help you get things out of your head and off your chest so that your motivation can return to its normal levels.