PTCA: The Power of Our Thoughts – Part 2

Hakan Dahlbo: In the first part of our conversation, we explored how negative thoughts can affect a player’s performance on the court. Now let’s move on to affirmations. For those who are unfamiliar, what exactly are affirmations and how do they work in the context of tennis? Bane Bradonic: Affirmations are positive statements that you repeat to yourself to influence your mindset and behavior.

In tennis, they can be used to replace negative thoughts and reinforce positive beliefs about your abilities. The idea is to consistently feed your mind with encouraging and empowering thoughts, which in turn can change your subconscious mindset.

This is crucial because, as we discussed earlier, the subconscious mind drives much of our behavior on the field.

Hakan Dahlbo: That makes sense. You outlined four important rules for making effective tennis fastenings.

Can you explain these rules to us and why they are important?

Bane Bradonic: Absolutely. The first rule is that affirmations should be positive, not negative. Our subconscious mind doesn’t recognize the word “not.”

So when you say, “I don’t want to double fault,” your mind grabs the concept of “double fault.” Instead, you should phrase your affirmation as, “I execute my serve perfectly.”

This way you focus on the action you want to achieve.

Hakan Dahlbo: So it’s about focusing on success instead of failure.

Bane Bradonic: Exactly. The second rule is to replace negative images with positive ones.

For example, instead of saying, “I don’t make unnecessary mistakes,” you would say, “I play with precision and focus.” This shifts your attention from what you want to avoid to what you want to achieve, which promotes a mindset of confidence and success.

Hakan Dahlbo: That’s a powerful change of perspective.

What about the third rule – the use of the present tense?

Bane Bradonic: The present tense is crucial because it signals to your brain that the affirmation is a current reality and not something that will happen in the future.

Saying “I am mentally strong” instead of “I will be mentally strong” anchors your mindset in the present, which is essential for staying calm and focused during a match.

Hakan Dahlbo: That gives the confirmation a sense of urgency and relevance.

Why is it important to make clear, decisive statements, as you mentioned in the fourth line?

Bane Bradonic: Clear statements like “I’m confident in my shot” or “I’m willing to give it my all” remove doubt and exude certainty.

Phrases like “I’ll try” or “I should” create hesitation and make success seem conditional or remote. By making firm, clear statements, you send a strong message to your subconscious mind, which strengthens your belief in your own abilities.

Hakan Dahlbo: It’s amazing how a simple change in wording can make such a big difference.

Let’s talk about the impact these affirmations can have. How can they transform a player’s game?

Bane Bradonic: Affirmations can completely change the way a player approaches the game, both mentally and physically.

By repeating affirmations regularly, you begin to internalize these positive messages. This builds your confidence, improves your focus, and helps you stay calm under pressure. For example, if you consistently tell yourself, “I will stay calm and focused no matter what,” your brain begins to accept this as truth.

When stressful situations arise, you will find that you can remain clear-headed and calm, which is essential for high-level performance.

Hakan Dahlbo: How should players incorporate affirmations into their routine? What is the best way to make them part of their training and match preparation?

Bane Bradonic: A practical way to implement affirmations is to reflect after every practice or game.

Identify all the negative thoughts you had and replace them with positive affirmations. Write them down and repeat them regularly, especially before training or competitions. This will help to strengthen your self-confidence and gradually break down old, limiting patterns.

Hakan Dahlbo: You also mentioned using deep relaxation techniques to increase the effectiveness of affirmations.

Can you explain how this works?

Bane Bradonic: Deep relaxation is a state in which your mind is particularly receptive to positive messages. Before a big game, you can sit quietly, close your eyes, and breathe deeply to relax.

In this state, repeat your affirmations, such as “I am strong, I am focused, I am ready.” You can also listen to calming music to enhance this process. This helps build mental resilience and prepares you to face the challenges of the competition with a calm and focused mindset.

Hakan Dahlbo: That’s a powerful way to prepare yourself mentally.

Finally, what advice would you give to players who want to gain control over their mental game through affirmations?

Bane Bradonic: I would say embrace the process of mental training just like you do with physical training.

Start with simple, clear affirmations that work for you and practice them consistently. Remember, you are the captain of your game. By directing your thoughts in a positive direction, you are directing your game to the success you desire.

The key is to believe in your affirmations and repeat them until they become an integral part of your mindset. With time and dedication, you will see how these positive statements can transform not only your tennis game, but your overall approach to challenges.

Hakan Dahlbo: Great advice, Bane.

Thank you for sharing your insights on how affirmations can improve a player’s performance. I’m sure our readers will find this incredibly helpful as they work to master their mental game and become the best players they can be.

Bane Bradonic: Thank you, Hakan.

It was a pleasure to discuss this with you. I hope it inspires players to harness the power of their thoughts and reach new heights in their game.

Hakan Dahlbo: I’m sure it will. Thanks again, Bane, and good luck to all our readers as they apply these principles to their tennis journey.