Tom Griffin, head baseball coach of the Carson-Newman Eagles uttered these words often this season. The context of these powerful words is almost as important as the message it conveyed. For instance, these words would be expressed to players most often after an unexecuted play, missed opportunity, or lapse in concentration.
“So what” meant in effect that everything was still okay and no damage was done, but it also meant more than that. “So what” was intended to instruct the players to focus on the next pitch, because what has happened can not be changed. It serves as a reminder that we have a choice about our attitude and where we want our focus to be at every moment. The context of these words is also crucial because holding on to a bad play does not allow anyone an opportunity to achieve his/her best. Within the context of sports where a next play always HAS to be executed, it is a powerful mental tool.
Bad calls, poor execution, no playing time, tough opposition, unfair bosses, flat tires, un-recognized contributions are some examples of possible difficulties that we may face.
In sports and life we will all have “things happen.” However, the most important thing is how we react to the difficulties! The difference between mentally tough coaches, players, and people is the ability to overcome unfortunate events and focus on what is important right now. It is simple when everything goes right, but when things do go bad and you’re having a poor day, how bad do you let it become and what do you do?
Think about how powerful the words “so what” are and how we can relate them to our own lives and the people we care about. If sports or life was easy then everyone would be a success, so try re-focusing on what is important and implement the strategy of “so what.” When things start to unravel say out loud “so what?” and notice how your attitude shifts and how you’re able to concentrate on the next play.
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Rob Bell, PhD in Sport Psychology from the University of Tennessee can be reached for consultation at (865)-591-7730 or rbell2@utk.edu. Visit the website drrobbell.com
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