Mindset Monday #48 | How To Actually Work on Your Mindset

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Welcome back to another edition of Mindset Monday from Gary Roberts Performance. Today, we’re diving into the practical side of mindset development—a critical yet often under explored aspect of high-performance training. We'll break down how to approach mental preparation as a trainable skill, just like any other physical component of your game. By setting goals, establishing a routine, and measuring progress, you can build a resilient and focused mindset over time.

Mindset as a Trainable Skill

‍Mindset isn’t just something you’re born with—it’s a skill that, like your shot or speed, can be trained and improved. The process is simple in theory: assess where you are now, create a plan to enhance your mindset, and measure your progress over time. By consistently working on mental skills, you build “compound interest” that pays off in big moments on the ice.

Step 1: Start Where You Are

‍The first step in mindset training is identifying your current baseline. For example, if you tend to feel nervous before games, rate your nervousness on a scale from 1 to 10. This establishes a starting point that you can use to track improvements.

Step 2: Implementing a Mindset Routine

‍Once you know where you’re starting, establish a routine to help shift your mindset. Say your pre-game nervousness is at a 9 out of 10. Introduce a simple practice—like a 5–7-minute visualization before each game. With each game, reassess and adjust your routine as needed.

Step 3: Track Progress and Set New Goals

‍After following your routine for a set period (say, 10 games), revisit your initial baseline. If your nervousness has dropped, it’s a sign that your practice is working. At this point, set a new goal—whether it’s achieving a higher level of confidence or focusing on a different aspect of your mental game.

Training your mind takes dedication and consistency. Start small, assess your progress, and build on each success. With time, this compound interest will lead to a mindset that’s calm, confident, and prepared to take on any challenge. With the right mindset, you’re not just reacting to challenges—you’re proactively building the mental resilience needed to succeed in hockey and beyond.

This approach ties mental preparation to a familiar training model, helping players of all levels see mindset as a foundational skill worth the investment.

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