Mental Maximization

By Max Eberle

Calm Your Nerves with Fun

I think we have all been there.  Played below our capability in a match because we were anxious, tight, or nervous for whatever reason.  It is easy to make a huge deal out of a match even if it really does not mean much. And it is easy to place all our focus o­n the outcome or anticipated outcome before it even happens. These thoughts about winning and losing, the other player, the crowd-all take away focus and hinder a relaxed state that is ideal for us to perform at our best.

Did you fall in love with pool because it gave you a chance to win at something? Or did you fall in love with pool because it is simply interesting and fun? Probably because it was so fun, right? And do you play your best when you are relaxed or when you are tense? Probably relaxed.

I think having fun helps you to relax. Your heart rate is slower and your confidence is better. If you can have fun and concentrate, your stroke will be smooth and you will stay down o­n the ball better.

Next time you are nervous, tight, or worried before a match, remember you are about to go play some pool. It is not some test you must pass in order to preserve your life ... it is a game of pool. Remind yourself of this before the match. Accept your nervous feelings and tell yourself that you will be getting calmer and calmer. Settle down. Really focus o­n setting your stance up where it needs to be, so you can have a relaxed stroke and focus o­n the speed control.

If you are sloppy with your setup and tense, you will be more likely to jump up when it is time to shoot. It is hard to control the cue ball if you don't feel the object ball will be dropping. While you don't want to have a sloppy setup, you also don't want to be too tight in your setup. Relaxed concentration is the key. You are relaxed and focused in the zone.

Relax in between shots, too. Don't be so worried. Walk around like you know what you are doing. Look at Jose Parica in between his shots. It looks like he is taking a stroll in the park.

So many times the first game or two can set the emotional tone for the rest of the match. Many times your nerves will be calmed if you can do well in the beginning.
Don't let your guard down, though, if things start out well, because o­ne mistake in this sport can cost the whole match. So keep concentrating, o­ne shot at a time. Relax, and remember to have fun!

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