Many young athletes who are perfectionists in sports don’t understand how this trait can make it difficult for them to reach their potential. There are some real advantages to perfectionism in sports. These athletes have a strong work ethic, are committed to goals, and want to learn and improve. However, when kids try to be perfect, they can suppress their own talent.
A major challenge for perfectionist kids is that they unknowingly adopt high expectations for themselves. When they don’t achieve these expectations, they often feel frustrated and are afraid of failing. When athletes are afraid of failing, they become anxious about outcomes such as scores and stats and worry too much about failing.
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