Self Talk Continuum

[doctorhl]

There have been some research attempts to describe a continuum of self talk between/during points in a tennis match. Here is my arbitrary and subjective attempt:

True Beginner: 100% focus on finding “ sweet spot” of racket.
Intermediate: 80% focus on stroke/footwork technique; 20% on strategy
Advanced: 80% on strategy; 20% on technique
Pro: 90% on strategy; 10% on technique
Pro “In the Zone”- 100% focus on finding the “sweet spot”

Both the True Beginner and the Pro In the Zone are free from expectations. Everything is automatic! Comments?

[bottle]

There have been some research attempts to describe a continuum of self talk between/during points in a tennis match. Here is my arbitrary and subjective attempt:

True Beginner: 100% focus on finding “ sweet spot” of racket.
Intermediate: 80% focus on stroke/footwork technique; 20% on strategy
Advanced: 80% on strategy; 20% on technique
Pro: 90% on strategy; 10% on technique
Pro “In the Zone”- 100% focus on finding the “sweet spot”

Both the True Beginner and the Pro In the Zone are free from expectations. Everything is automatic! Comments?

Great.

[doctorhl]

I had heard the many stories of “The Zone” and knew that it existed. Many before me had tried and failed to capture this elusive mindset for more than a few moments. Then it happened. Total rapture, no thoughts. Every point was pure instinct. I felt more like an observer than a participant.I had bottled the genie for the entire match. Then.............I woke up from my nap!

[bottle]

I had heard the many stories of “The Zone” and knew that it existed. Many before me had tried and failed to capture this elusive mindset for more than a few moments. Then it happened. Total rapture, no thoughts. Every point was pure instinct. I felt more like an observer than a participant.I had bottled the genie for the entire match. Then.............I woke up from my nap!

Maybe we've all had that experience. Dream or not, it sure is addicting.

[johnyandell]

doctor, yes what Jim Loehr identified as the ideal performance state:

https://www.tennisplayer.net/members/mentalgame/jim_loehr/jim_loehr_ideal_performance_state_images/jim_loehr_ideal_performance_state.html