You know that in order to become a better female hockey player, you have to set goals. But how do you know if the goals that you are setting are the right ones to take your hockey performance to the next level? For example, is setting a goal to score a hat-trick in your next game a good goal to have?

Scoring a hat-trick is a good “goal” to have (pun intended), but think about what aspect of scoring goals you actually have control over.  You actually have very little control over whether you score. You can’t control whether the goalie makes the save or if your teammates pass you the puck. The only aspect you really have control over is whether your shots hit the net (unless someone blocks it of course).

The bottom line is:  If you don’t hit the net, you can’t score.

Instead of focusing on the final outcome (the 3 goals), focus on the process (getting your shots to hit the net).

[PS – If you are a goalie, instead of the hat-trick example, think about setting a goal like, “I want to get a shut-out”. How much control do you have over whether that actually happens?]

Effective goal setting is all about determining what you want your final outcome to be (scoring a goal, winning a tournament, being league champions), but really focusing on the process that is going to get you there.

You’ve got to dream BIG, set BIG goals, and then work hard to go get them.

If you want a simple step-by-step manual to take you through the whole goal setting process – and something that will help you take your confidence and focus to the next level – check out Total Female Hockey’s Mental Performance PLUS.

Work Hard. Dream BIG.

~ Coach Kim