• Motivation can stem from many sources, but some are more sustainable than others. Motivation from within increases desire to learn and improve, fuels long-term engagement, and drives performers to pursue their goals for longer. Leaders play a vital role in boosting (or hindering) performers’ internal motivation.
• Mindsets shape how performers perceive effort, success and failure, stress, and their approach to practice and competition. Crucial mindsets for leaders to foster are Growth Mindset, Stress-can-be-enhancing Mindset, and Training and Trusting Mindsets.
• Psychological Safety is one of the strongest predictors of team success. High-performing teams are built on open communication where performers don’t think twice about solving problems creatively, taking intelligent risks, and learning from mistakes. Leaders foster this environment by creating a culture of trust and openness.
• Feedback can dramatically enhance performers’ learning. The best coaches understand how to deliver both praise and criticism, how often and at what times to do so, and what styles of feedback help performers learn most effectively.
• Effective Practice structures can help performers develop as much as good coaching. Techniques for effective training include periodization of season plans, practice and drill designs, skill acquisition basics, and the roles of struggle and recovery.