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Learn to shift focus from internal to external when required.


An important element of self-management is the ability to manage attention, focus or concentration. Skilful performers can shift focus when the situation requires it and at will. One dimension is internal-external:
  1. Internal: this is your body, how it feels, your perceived exertion, your heart-rate, tension, but also your emotions and thoughts
  2. External: that which is outside your body, the competitive arena, your opponent(s), the weather
  3. Practice in training to shift your attention from internal to external and back again, plus to learn when it is helpful to have an internal or external focus.

Dr Victor Thompson
www.sportspsychologist.com
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