Summer Confidence Series (Part 4 of 4): Why Mental Toughness Is Overrated - What To Do Instead

Raising Elite Competitors

Is the “mental toughness” mantra leaving your daughter stressed and burnt out? You’re not alone! In this episode, we’re ditching the old playbook and creating a game plan for building confidence, not crushing spirits.

Here’s what you’ll learn (and why it matters):

• Why the “suck it up” approach actually hurts confidence.
• How to be your daughter’s safe space.
• The “What to Say Challenge” that gets results (and keeps the communication flowing!).
• Pre-game pep talks that ACTUALLY work (ditch the generic advice!).
• How to support your daughter during competition (without being THAT sideline parent!).
• Post-competition conversations that build resilience (and avoid the post-game blues!).

This episode is for YOU if:

• You’re a sports parent who wants to see your daughter thrive, not just win.
• You’re tired of the pressure to be “mentally tough” and want a more supportive approach.
• You’re looking for actionable tips to build your daughter’s confidence on and off the field.

Ready to ditch the “old way” and create a winning environment for your daughter? Hit play and let’s get started!

Come hang out with Shellee on social @‌collegereadyplan and learn more about working with her!

For Guest Interview Email: [e-mail].
Episode Highlights:

[01:10] Introduction to Mental Toughness.
[01:18] Shout-out to Shelley for her support and contributions to the community.
[02:00] Critique of Mental Toughness Approach. The shortcomings and potential harm of the mental toughness approach in sports.

Introducing a New Approach: Safe Space. Creating a safe space for athletes as a more effective alternative.
[3:40] Impact on Athletes: Anxiety and Perfectionism. The link between traditional mental toughness and increased anxiety and perfectionism among athletes
[07:32] Building Confidence in Athletes: Four Key Areas of Focus. The four key areas for boosting athletes’ confidence.
Next Steps:

• Join our FREE Training for Sports Moms - How to Strengthen Your Athlete Daughter's Mental Game so She Believes in Herself as Much as You Do
• Enroll in The Elite Mental Game - our self-paced training program proven to strengthen your athlete’s mental game and confidence with a $400 discount here!
• Visit our podcast website for more great episodes

Thank you in advance for joining us on our mission and leaving a rating and review on Apple Podcasts.

Hoofdstukken

1. Building Confidence in Young Athletes (00:00:00)

2. Fostering Confidence in Young Athletes (00:12:44)

3. Summer Confidence Series Recap and Offer (00:16:44)