Have you ever arrived home after a particularly bad loss and had this to say: ”That’s it. I’m never playing tennis again”? Think for a moment about your last match. Were you smiling or did your body language communicate a tone that resembled grim determination? Be honest.
We’ve all been there. Of course we’d like to be on the winning side of the score when every match ends. But let’s face it – if that were the case we’d be on the pro tour.
When I first started playing tennis I loved every minute and couldn’t wait to get back out on to the court. But then I started competing and oh how things changed. Suddenly playing tennis became a performance and the associated pressure became my constant companion. When I lost a match I would constantly replay the mistakes and ignore memories of great shots or winning important points. Of course it didn’t help that I’d been a musician from a young age and am naturally a tortured perfectionist.
Focus on the Positive
I’m pleased to report that it is possible to have fun playing tennis again. After all, isn’t that what got you hooked on playing tennis initially? One really compelling reason for relaxing and having fun on the court is that you’ll play better overall.
Here are three approaches that can get you back to having some fun on the court:
- Remember – replay the killer shots or serves from your match in your mind hours after you played. They are memories about the enjoyment of playing and will bring a smile to your face.
- Journal – record the positive aspects of your match and what you learned. Read a few thoughts before each match to focus your thoughts on playing well.
- Smile – while you are playing. Sure your opponents may think you are having a private laugh at their expense. . .but more importantly, you will relax and play a better match.
Playing Tennis = Mini-Vacation
My first group instructor shared some great advice about time spent on the court – consider yourself on a mini-vacation. Doing so gives us permission to focus 100% on enjoying every moment. With this mindset, there are no To Do Lists, no kids to pick up, and no emails or texts to check. I’ve remembered that advice for nearly ten years and it brings a smile to my face every time.
Next time you head out to the court for a friendly or competitive match, choose to have fun and experiment with one of my suggestions for enjoying that time even more. Once you find what works for you, share your success by posting a comment here.
Image Credit: dearbarbie