Why Steroid Use is A Big Distraction for Sports Kids
Steroid use is a big distraction for sports kids-even if they’re not using steroids (and we hope they don’t).
Why? Kids read about top-level athletes using steroids. It’s in the news all the time. This directs their focus on the importance of winning at all costs-which is a mental game no-no.
That’s the word from Kirk Mango, national champion, Hall of Famer, and author of “Becoming A True Champion.”
“The over-focus on winning diminished the focus on developing the inside and on the mental game,” he says. It takes away focus on inner excellence and development.”
Young Athletes Should Develop From The “Inside Out”
Mango says it’s critical for young athletes to focus their efforts on developing from the inside out.
“The idea of illegal steroid use comes from looking at sports with the ‘outside in’ rather than an ‘inside out’ type of viewpoint,” he says. “Athletes who make these types of choices put huge emphasis on winning, and do so at any cost…no matter what. They break rules and harm their health. This is the example that is being set by too many athletes at the elite level, thus, setting the tone for younger athletes to do the same.”
Mango is horrified by the fact that parents bring their kids in to doctors and request steroids. “The problem here is it supports the exact opposite of what the mental game is all about,” he says.
Focusing Too Much on Winning Hurts Athletes’ Mental Game
Rather than focusing on how to win, kids need to focus more on how they think and what they think-on their mental game skills.
“With so much importance placed on the external and the outcome (winning), how can one truly develop the proper mental thought processed that encompass a big part of being successful…not only in sports but life?” he says.
Listen to Our Kids’ Sports Psychology Expert Interview
Mango has strong feelings about the importance of players learning how to develop from the inside out and is an articulate speaker about the subject. We just posted our interview with him in Kids’ Sports Psychology. Exclusive members can access it here:
Exclusive Members, Listen to Kirk Mango Interview
To listen to the first half of this interview, use the player below:
In addition to listening to Mango’s tips, exclusive members of Kids’ Sports Psychology have access to other audio interviews from experts, e-books, articles and resources designed to help kids boost their confidence and make the most of their sports experience.
Related Articles on Kids’ Mental Game:
- Helping Sports Kids Who Call Themselves Negative Names
- How Toxic Sports Cultures Hurt Kids’ Mental Health
- The Link Between Sports Kids’ Mental Game and Mental Health
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Improve Your Mental Game From Anywhere In The World
We’re certain that, as a parent, you want to help your child develop confidence and discipline in sports and life. And as a sports parent, you’d love for your children to reach their potential in sports. But encouraging your child to strive for greatness without pressuring them can be a challenge.
You can get expert mental coaching with us from anywhere. Meet with us via Zoom, Skype, FaceTime or phone call. With today’s video technology, we are able to connect with athletes and coaches all over the globe.
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