How Athletes Can Effectively Manage Uncertainty — Insights from Mental Skills Coach Shaun Goodsell

In the world of sports, uncertainty is a given. Whether it’s the unpredictability of an opponent’s game plan, the possibility of injury, or the looming unknowns of season performance, uncertainty can cast a long shadow over even the most confident athlete. As a Mental Skills Coach, I have spent years guiding athletes on how to navigate this challenge. My approach emphasizes cultivating mental resilience, staying grounded in controllable factors, and using uncertainty as a tool for growth rather than fear.

1. Accepting Uncertainty as a Constant

Athletes often face resistance to uncertainty because it brings discomfort and, sometimes, fear. I advise athletes to shift their mindset to accept uncertainty as an inherent part of competition and life. When athletes embrace uncertainty as normal, they reduce the urge to control every aspect of performance, which can lead to...