Do you have a pre-performance routine (PPR)? A PPR is a routine or specific set of tasks for you to focus on prior to your performance. Your PPR primes your mind by engaging in a light introduction to the upcoming activity and begins the process of transitioning your mindset from your last activity to the present moment and goal. The PPR helps shift your attention to the present moment and the smaller task at hand, instead of where your mind may be headed (feeling anxious or overwhelmed). As we have noted in prior blog posts, our mind can have the tendency to play tricks on us or be less helpful. It is our job to direct our mind’s attention to where we want it to go and a PPR is a helpful way to intentionally pay attention.
PPRs can be complex or simple. If you are looking to improve your PPR, consider incorporating both ritual and pre-competition routines. Including rituals will help you connect to your greater purpose and highlight your support system. For example, you and a teammate may perform a specific handshake or say a phrase to each other prior to a game. Engaging in a pre-competition routine will get the mind ready and shift focus to the competition. For instance, goalies may follow a warm-up routine including the same stretches and goalie-specific movements to get them primed to track the puck or ball well when they transition to the game.
