I wish there was a blanket answer for all athletes to follow. However, it’s not that easy, and the truth is you’re going to have to find out for yourself. So take a moment and reflect on your most recent games. Do you currently feel like you have the jitters when you take the field? Are you unable to calm down and relax at the plate? Maybe you’re too calm and feel your reaction time is too slow. When the 7th rolls around, are you feeling fatigued?
It is important to first determine your intensity baseline, before setting a plan to move forward. If your intensity levels are spot on, don’t change anything! However, if your introspection led to an epiphany, it’s time to improve.
Intensity not high enough: Tweak your pre-game routine. Add some high-tempo hype-up music. Get your more vocal teammates to bring you in and pump you up. Change your body language and add some swagger (acting hyped and intense will lead you to feeling as such)!
Intensity too high: Listen to soothing, mellow music pre-game. Take a backseat if your teammates are pumping themselves up. If you’re on the field or in the batter’s box, take a moment to close your eyes and breath deeply, clearing your mind. Find what works for you and stick with it.
Don’t settle for feeling a way you dislike during games. Experiment and make a change.