Most athletes spend hours training their body… but what about your mind?

Here are 5 essential mental skills elite athletes use – and how you can start developing them. Whether you’re just starting out, you’re an amateur, or a pro give them a try:

Focus under pressure – Stay present and block out distractions during high-stakes moments.

Tool: 5-4-3-2-1 grounding technique before performance.

Confidence on demand – Trust your ability even after mistakes.

Tool: Use mental rehearsal to visualise successful outcomes daily.

Emotional control – Channel nerves into energy, not fear.

Tool: Learn self-hypnosis techniques to calm your nervous system.

Goal clarity – Know your “why” and align your training with it.

Tool: Break big goals into smaller, measurable weekly wins.

Recovery mindset – Bounce back quickly from setbacks or injury.

Tool: Use solution-focused questions to reframe challenges and re-engage motivation.

Want to strengthen your mental game like you do your physical one?

Email me laura@laurabeadle.com

#mentalperformance #mindset #winnersmind #hypnotherayp #sportsperformance