1 of these 8 mental states may hold you back from performing your best and having an optimal experience in CrossFit, Work, Relationships….LIFE.

Call it an ‘Achilles’ heal’, a ‘hurdle’, a ‘chink in armor’ or a ‘weakness’. Truthfully, we all experience uncomfortable and unproductive emotions and thought patterns. The truth is, that is okay. We have emotions that negatively impact our behaviors and therefore our CrossFit Performance may suffer. It is important to at least become aware of the ‘thing(s)’ holding you back from optimal performance and a satisfying experience. Only then, can you work on strategies to overcome and move forward. You are only as fit and strong as your weakest link.

• The goal of this is to think through each of the 8 terms and decide which 1 most commonly and most drastically affects you (you may want to think of the ‘runner up’ as a lot of these themes tie together).
• Then ask 3 people who most closely interact with you during your performance setting. See if you agree, and whether you do or don’t – have a meaningful conversation about it. Dig a little deeper. Ask for examples. Grow.
• This is simply one way to create further awareness & open discussion about the reasons you may not be performing your best or reasons you are not fully enjoying your performance, have some fun with it.

The 8 Categories

1. Self-Consciousness – being excessively cautious and concerned with your appearance/manner

2. Stubbornness – persistent adherence to your own desires & ideas

3. Fear  – a distressing emotion aroused by a perceived threat

4. Competitiveness – characterized or based on competition

5. Anxiety – unpleasant state of mental uneasiness or concern

6. Perfectionism – a disposition to feel anything less than perfect is unacceptable

7. Lack of Focus – not concentrated upon or moving towards an objective

8. Anger – a strong feeling of displeasure

You may want to journal about the 1 or 2 areas you have chosen. Ask yourself why you picked that one; when & how it has affected you etc.

Again, this is just one strategy to open up your minds, create friendly discussion and to become more aware of YOUR hurdles. Share your thoughts with your support system and ask them to help you expand and explore what is holding you back. The goal is just to be open.

To see a video of Miranda O.(a CrossFit Competitor and HQ Trainer) & I work through this drill, check out this CrossFit Journal Video.

If you enjoy this posting and would like further guidance, make sure you check out “Prepare To Perform”
Copyright FletcherFitness  

Dawn Fletcher has an M.A. in Kinesiology with a focus on Sport Psychology. She is a CrossFit Coach and Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (NSCA) in San Diego, CA. Through this website, she helps thousands of people reach their fitness and performance goals. Make sure to sign up for newsletter for free tips and videos.