Batting with a Quiet Mind

In July, I received a fascinating email from a batsman from Manchester.  He went on to say:

‘I’m 19 years old and have ambitions to professional cricket but I have some serious worries about making it.  When I am batting I seem to have a permanent battle in my head.   I bat at three most of the time.  It means I can have a run now and again when my scores are low.  I can then really struggle to dig myself out of it.  My mind goes crazy, during these times.  How do I stop it?’

I went on to tell the cricketer this is very common, across all sports and even with good cricketers.  In simple terms the brain is taking on too much information and is overloaded therefore learning some simple strategies to reduce the internal chatter in his mind would be hugely helpful.

How to Quieten the Mind?

Below are 2 simple tips:

Tip 1:

Consider when you are relaxed and play your best in the nets or matches.  It is likely that your unconscious mind has taken over.  Most cricketers at this point have a quiet mind, free from too much emotion, trust their technique and allow themselves to go on autopilot.  It is common, to be thinking of very little at this point, only 1-2 things consciously during those moments.  So think back what 2-3 things or cues do you think about when you’re on top form in different situations? Write them down and to help your self-awareness and confidence.

Tip 2:

As a cricketer there are going to be many times in a game when you are alone with your thoughts, when you’re waiting at the non-strikers end, when there is a break in play or when you’re fielding. 

Do you have a strategy during these times to quieten your overactive mind?  If not give this a try….

Be curious, similar to a small child and scan the ground or scenery, look at small tiny details that you may have never noticed before.  The logo’s on your bat, your footwear, people’s clothing, brand’s advertised on the hoardings and so on….  If you’re fortunate and are able to look out to great scenery, take it in.    It’s a great technique, when practised regularly to stop over thinking whilst playing cricket.

Be warned not to over-do it and get caught out sleeping though! Seriously, the tips may sound too straight forward but they work and the benefits of consistently practising them can be priceless to your batting.

Feel free to share this with other cricketers or coaches or sign up to “The Mental Edge” for regular updates.  Also please let me know what works well for you, to quieten your mind.

To get in touch for one 2 one Sports Psychology Coaching with a Leading Sports Psychologist, David Charlton, based near Newcastle Upon Tyne click here – Face to face, via the telephone, SKYPE or online via email.