Failing on the biggest sports stages offers a unique window into overcoming adversity, showing athletes how to bounce back from setbacks. Athletes often face failure as much as success during competitions, and for professionals and Olympians, these moments can be particularly devastating, watched by millions worldwide. From Simone Biles' struggle with 'the twisties' at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics to Bill Buckner's infamous error in the 1986 World Series, these moments haunt fans. Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Orion Kerkering joined this club when he mishandled a bases-loaded comebacker, leading to his team's playoff elimination. Despite the setback, Kerkering remained resilient, emphasizing the importance of perseverance. Moving past such failures isn't easy, as even Pope Leo XIV acknowledged, highlighting the need to confront fragility and limitations. Sports psychologists emphasize the importance of acceptance and coping strategies for athletes to return to peak performance. Prior preparation is key, as mental rehearsal can help athletes anticipate potential challenges. Robert Andrews, a mental training consultant, uses techniques like mental preparation to build confidence and belief. Andrews' approach involves being mentally and emotionally centered, ensuring athletes are prepared for high-pressure situations. Similarly, Alex Auerbach, a performance psychologist, advocates for the 'release, reset, refocus' routine, which helps athletes quickly let go of mistakes and redirect their attention to the task at hand. When adversity strikes, the mental repair process begins. Andrews suggests avoiding social media to prevent negative reactions, as hateful messages can exacerbate the situation. He employs EMDR (Eye Movement, Desensitization, and Reprocessing) to help athletes process traumatic experiences and overcome performance anxiety. However, the healing process takes time, and Andrews recommends allowing the nervous system to gradually process the shock of the event. The good news, according to Auerbach, is the growing acceptance of mental strategies in sports. Athletes are increasingly receptive to mindset work, recognizing the importance of mental health and performance in achieving top-level success. This shift in perspective is crucial for athletes to develop resilience and overcome adversity.
