I think the reason for this is that achievement goals—Olympic gold, a World Cup, becoming CEO, or any external milestone—are actually too small. They're finite, and when your identity becomes attached to them, the moment they come within reach, fear takes over because there's something to lose. I experienced this in professional hockey. The athletes who perform most freely often have a much bigger goal: to learn and grow every day, to live from love rather than fear, and to explore what's possible. When that's your aim, the outcome matters, but it no longer defines you. Ironically, that's often when extraordinary performance becomes possible.
I'm curious about how much of the wider context influences players refusal to step forward. Germany have been in a downward spiral in terms of international tournament performances since winning in 2014/Semi-finals Euro 2016. Losing to Praguay would (historically) be considered a national embarrassment. I wonder are players thinking about becoming the 'face' of the failed campaign due to one kick.
Seeing this made me question how much mental preparation, coaching, training high paid athletes like the German national team have and how it extends into youth academies
Re Germany - they had won 4 from 4 penalty shoot outs in the WC. Scoring 17 from 18 penalties and their last 15 straight heading into their game against Paraguay.
Yes, they were long the model for PKs. Some fascinating data showed during their run in the 2000-2010s, they tended to look away from the goalie only about 30% of the time while teams that struggled like England, avoided looking at the goalie something like 60% of time.
I think the reason for this is that achievement goals—Olympic gold, a World Cup, becoming CEO, or any external milestone—are actually too small. They're finite, and when your identity becomes attached to them, the moment they come within reach, fear takes over because there's something to lose. I experienced this in professional hockey. The athletes who perform most freely often have a much bigger goal: to learn and grow every day, to live from love rather than fear, and to explore what's possible. When that's your aim, the outcome matters, but it no longer defines you. Ironically, that's often when extraordinary performance becomes possible.
Yes. Certainly part of it. Thanks so much for adding your experience.
I'm curious about how much of the wider context influences players refusal to step forward. Germany have been in a downward spiral in terms of international tournament performances since winning in 2014/Semi-finals Euro 2016. Losing to Praguay would (historically) be considered a national embarrassment. I wonder are players thinking about becoming the 'face' of the failed campaign due to one kick.
I think this plays into it. It nudges you towards protection.
Exactly the article I was looking for, thank you!
Seeing this made me question how much mental preparation, coaching, training high paid athletes like the German national team have and how it extends into youth academies
This post is crazy good. 👍
Thanks so much. Stay tuned. I’ve got a lot more coming on this topic. One of my favorites.
Beast! 💪 Followed.
Great article!
Re Germany - they had won 4 from 4 penalty shoot outs in the WC. Scoring 17 from 18 penalties and their last 15 straight heading into their game against Paraguay.
Yes, they were long the model for PKs. Some fascinating data showed during their run in the 2000-2010s, they tended to look away from the goalie only about 30% of the time while teams that struggled like England, avoided looking at the goalie something like 60% of time.
Oh fascinating, thank you!