Article by Zhang Xinyue of Create Abundance

There is something that separates the best athletes in sports from similarly talented athletes who are not as successful. It is something other than physical fitness, skill/technique, and experience. This essential skill is having the right mindset.

Even the most talented athletes in the world can be plagued by fear, doubts, and ego. All of these thoughts can be highly distracting and can prevent competitors from reaching their highest potential. And all of these thoughts are almost inevitable when competing at the highest levels.

Like physical workouts and film sessions, preparation is key. Athletes must learn to train their minds by creating abundance in their thoughts. They must learn to be present in the moment, focused on the task at hand, and free from the distractions of negative emotions. Meditation and positive visualization are helpful skills for overcoming the unwanted emotions that distract athletes during competition.

Some of the most successful athletes in history have practiced meditation as part of their training regimens. Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant learned meditation from their coach, Phil Jackson. They went on to practice meditation in their time outside of practice because of the edge it gave them. Tennis champion Novak Djokovic is another avid meditation practitioner who credits the practice with helping him greatly during his tennis career.

Meditation can help focus your mind and free it from negative thoughts, allowing you to play your best almost subconsciously. With the right blend of mental and physical training, dominance on the field will become almost instinctual for you.

Zhang Xinyue is the founder of Create Abundance organization and author of the book with the same name. Create Abundance is a book full of advice on practicing body-mind-spirit cultivation. IT aims to promote a meaningful and applicable approach to the philosophical issues in life.