I’ve never understood how some sports fans get so wrapped up in their favorite team’s fortunes that the outcome of a game can actually affect their mood for days. There are a handful of teams I root for, but I don’t find myself getting emotionally attached to their wins and losses. The main reason: I had absolutely nothing to do with the result. So I can’t get worked up over something I have no control over.
On the other hand, if I’m a participant, a loss, particularly in a match in which a few points seemed to decide the outcome, is a completely different story. The loss will cause me to analyze every errant stroke and make me mighty ornery long after its conclusion. There may not be any prize money or national recognition awaiting the winner, but if you’re a competitive player a narrow defeat can cause you a world of hurt. What’s most important, though, is to not let a recent heartbreaking setback shake your confidence so that it affects your performance the next time a match comes down to the wire. Here are a few things to do to get over a tough loss:
Look at the positives: When the match is over, it’s difficult not to harp on the mistakes you may have made, but make sure you recall all the good things you did as well. If the score was close, you undoubtedly won many points and you need to focus on what you did in those situations. Tell yourself that if you execute more shots like those in the next match, the result will be different.
Give your opponent credit: You rarely see pros do this, but you weren’t playing yourself and it’s acceptable to acknowledge that your opponent was part of the reason you lost. This way the blame is not put squarely on your shoulders. Otherwise you might start to believe that losing tight matches is a flaw in your game.
Schedule a patsy: Nothing builds back your confidence like winning. So if you’ve been coming out on the wrong end of a couple of close matches, try to play your next one against somebody you know you can beat. Even if you’re playing an inferior opponent, successfully executing your shots and game plan will help bolster your belief in yourself. Consequently, the taste of victory will make you feel like you can repeat your success even in more competitive match-ups.