How to Overcome Mental Blocks in Sports
How to Overcome Mental Blocks in Sports
Mental blocks are one of the most frustrating challenges athletes face and one of the most common reasons athletes originally seek out SPMI services. An athlete may have the skill, the fitness, and the preparation yet suddenly feel stuck, hesitant, or unable to perform something they’ve done successfully hundreds of times before. Understanding where mental blocks come from, why they’re so hard to overcome, and how both athletes and parents contribute to them is the first step toward breaking free.
Where Mental Blocks Come From (Their Origin)
Mental blocks usually originate from fear-based experiences. These can include past failures, injuries, embarrassment, high-pressure moments, or repeated criticism. Over time, the brain begins to associate certain situations like competition, specific skills, or expectations with threat rather than opportunity.
For athletes, this often shows up as fear of failure, fear of judgment, or fear of making mistakes. For parents, mental blocks can unintentionally form when expectations, comparisons, or emotional reactions place pressure on results instead of growth. Even well-meaning encouragement can become stressful when athletes feel their value is tied to performance.
Why Mental Blocks Are So Difficult to Overcome
Mental blocks persist because they are protective, not logical. The brain believes it is keeping the athlete safe. When the brain senses danger, real or perceived, it activates survival responses that override confidence, motor skills, and decision-making.
Athletes often try to “push through” or “think positive,” but mental blocks don’t disappear through force. Parents may also unknowingly reinforce blocks by constantly asking about results, offering technical fixes during emotional moments, or expressing visible disappointment. This reinforces the idea that mistakes are dangerous rather than part of development.
A Famous Athlete Example
A well-known example is Simone Biles, who publicly experienced a mental block known as the “twisties” during the Olympics. Despite being one of the most skilled gymnasts in history, her mind-body connection temporarily broke down under extreme pressure. Instead of forcing performance, she stepped back, prioritized mental health, and eventually returned on her own terms demonstrating that awareness and courage, not denial, are key to overcoming mental blocks.
5 Powerful Solutions to Overcoming Mental Blocks
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Redefine the Threat
Athletes must learn that mistakes are information, not danger. Parents can help by praising effort, decision-making, and resilience—not just outcomes. -
Lower the Emotional Stakes
Pressure intensifies blocks. Creating emotional safety—especially after mistakes—allows the brain to relax and re-engage performance systems. -
Shift from Outcome to Process
Focusing on controllables (breathing, routines, cues) reduces anxiety. Parents should ask, “What did you learn?” instead of “Did you win?” -
Build a Strong Mental Floor
Confidence should be a standard, not a reaction to results. Athletes should define who they are on off days, not just great days. -
Train the Mind Like the Body
Visualization, self-talk training, mindfulness, and emotional regulation are skills—not traits. Mental training must be practiced consistently, not only when problems arise.
A Final Word to Athletes and Parents
Mental blocks are not a sign of weakness. They are a sign that the mind is overwhelmed and needs guidance. Athletes overcome mental blocks fastest when parents become partners in the process, creating an environment where growth, learning, and confidence come before results.
When the mind feels safe, performance follows.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental blocks please share this article with them or reach out to SPMI for a free 15-minute consultation.