How To Deal With Criticism So That You Don’t Take It So Personally #BITESIZE

EP 174 Episode Cover Paul McGee

How To Deal With Criticism So That You Don’t Take It So Personally #BITESIZE

Paul McGee

Professor Paul McGee is one of Europe’s leading speakers on the subject of change, resilience, wellbeing, and communication. His book SUMO became a Sunday Times best seller and his book on Self Confidence reached number one in the WHSmith’s business book chart and remained there for a further 24 weeks. He has appeared on BBC Breakfast television and is a regular contributor on BBC Radio.

Paul’s aim is to deliver a practical, relevant message that can make an immediate impact on people’s professional and personal lives. He’s spoken for more than 1,000 organisations in over 40 countries to date, and from India to Italy and from Bangkok to Brisbane, Paul’s messages have resonated with a global audience. He has had the privilege of working with one of the world’s top management gurus the late Dr Stephen Covey and his work has been endorsed by Sir Clive Woodward, who coached England to victory in the 2003 Rugby Union World Cup. Chris Evans has described Paul’s books as “a gift to the world.” His clients include prominent blue chip organisations, public sector bodies and a leading Premiership football club.

Prof. Paul McGee’s Books  • S.U.M.O. Your Relationships: How to Handle Not Strangle the People You Live and Work With • How to Speak So People Really Listen: The Straight–Talking Guide to Communicating with Influence and Impact •  S.U.M.O (Shut Up, Move On): The Straight-Talking Guide to Succeeding in Life •

Criticism is everywhere today, where people often share their opinions of other people very easily despite not knowing the person, online using social media.  The criticism often goes too far, especially in a sporting context, when so much emotion is evident.  Throw in general criticism on the side of a pitch from spectators, and negative feedback from coaches and team-mates.  It really can be tough being involved in sport with no hiding place.

You’ll find some athletes and coaches brush off criticism, others though can find it very difficult to deal with.  It can impact their well-being and relationships with other people.  Sometimes they’ll respond angrily or in an aggressive manner, in other cases they’ll be overcome with sadness and get very upset. 

The key is to take the learning, from criticism, which isn’t easy and is the focus of this bitesize episode, with Professor Paul McGee, one of Europe’s leading speakers and a respected author.  He shares some great stories and ideas to help you.

Feel free to tune in!

Key Learning Points:

  • A bad game doesn’t mean that you are a bad person.
  • Recognise if you become defensive in the face of criticism.
  • Acknowledge if your inner dialogue is overly critical and learn to be kinder to yourself.
  • Perspective is vital.

Useful Questions To Ask Yourself:

  • Would you seek advice from the person who has criticised you?
  • Does the person criticising you have your best interests at heart?
  • Will I remember this incident in 6 months’ time?
  • On a scale of 1-10 how close to death is this situation?

Connect with Paul McGee

LinkedIn

The Sumo Guy Website 

Books written by Paul McGee

S.U.M.O. Your Relationships: How to Handle Not Strangle the People You Live and Work With

S.U.M.O (Shut Up, Move On): The Straight-Talking Guide to Succeeding in Life

Connect with David Charlton

Sign Up to The Mental Edge

Join David @ The Sports Psychology Hub

Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn

Relevant Podcast Episodes

Ep041: Paul McGee – How to Develop Interpersonal Confidence

Ep105: Hannah Bromley – Overcoming Psychological Challenges in Professional Women’s Football

Ep120: David Charlton – Sport Coach Development: Helping Athletes Perform Better by Adapting How You Communicate

Ep131 David Charlton – How to Deal with Self-Criticism using Self Compassion – FINAL PART

Ep166: Mark Bennett MBE – How To Help Athletes and Coaches Reflect On Their Performances

Relevant Blogs

Blog: 3 Tips to deal with bullying in sport

Blog: Communicating with children in sport

Blog: Why You Should Recognise The Power of Your Words

Blog: How Coaches Can Help Athletes Deal with Mistakes

Blog: 5 Ways To Create A Psychological Safe Sporting Environment

Other Useful Resources

Conversations with Kids – Dealing with Criticism

Kristin Neff Website on Self-Compassion

IF YOU ENJOYED TODAY'S SHOW PLEASE SHARE

SUBSCRIBE AND LISTEN ON YOUR FAVOURITE AUDIO PLATFORM

Also, kindly consider taking the 60-seconds it takes to leave an honest review and rating for the podcast on iTunes, they’re extremely helpful when it comes to the ranking of the show and we read every single one of them!

David Charlton

Best Wishes 

David Charlton

Global Sports Psychologist who is located near Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK and willing to travel Internationally.  David also uses online video conferencing software (Zoom, Facetime, WhatsApp) on a regular basis and has clients who he has supported in USA, Canada, South America, UAE, Australian and New Zealand.  

Managing Director – Inspiring Sporting Excellence and Founder of The Sports Psychology Hub.  With over 10 years experience supporting athletes, coaches, parents and teams to achieve their goals, quickly. 

T: +44 7734 697769

E: [email protected]

Search Our Sports Psychology Website

Popular Categories

Join Our Online Community Now!

Mental Edge Newsletter

Are you an athlete, coach or parent that would like to learn how to create sustainable high performance? Receive our free regular newsletter, where we share proven mental toughness and high performance tips and strategies. If you want some support and motivation straight to your inbox, then sign up below.

    We won't send you spam. Unsubscribe at any time.

    How To Deal With Other People In Professional Football #BITESIZE

    EP 173 Episode Cover Peter Ramage

    How To Deal With Other People In Professional Football #BITESIZE

    Peter Ramage
    Peter Ramage

    Peter Ramage is the Assistant Player Loans Manager for Premier League Club, Newcastle United.  He is a former footballer who began his career with Newcastle United before moving up to the first team where he played alongside, Alan Shearer, Craig Bellamy and Shay Given between 2004 and 2008.  He then moved to Queens Park Rangers ending a 12 year association with Newcastle United.  Peter also played for Crystal Palace, Birmingham City, Barnsley Kerala Blasters in the Indian Super League, Coventry City before ending his playing career in the USA with Phoenix Rising FC.  He also coached at Phoenix Rising FC and with the youngsters in Newcastle United’s Academy.

    A measure of Mental Toughness is interpersonal confidence, which reflects your ability to deal confidently with challenges from other people.  Those with good interpersonal confidence are likely to be better at dealing positively with these situations and with people, tending to be more assertive.  They are also more comfortable in social or team settings, especially when mistakes occur or as is often the case, especially in some sports, when criticism is dished out.

    Today’s short bite taken from episode 03 of Demystifying Mental Toughness, touches on this topic where current Assistant Player Loans Manager at Newcastle United Football Club, Peter Ramage tells me about some of the situations he came across as a professional footballer, he also shares with you some helpful advice from some of the lessons that he has learned in dealing with others in a football environment.  Enjoy tuning in!

    Key Learning Points:

    • Dealing with a lack of game time as a young footballer.
    • Coping with criticism from teammates, coaches and fans.
    • Dealing with being dropped and pushing yourself when you’re a squad player.
    • Ideas on how to approach your manager when you are seeking answers or looking to improve.
    • It is vitally important to be honest with yourself and take some time to reflect on your approach and mindset.

    Connect with Peter Ramage

    LinkedIn

    Instagram

    Connect with David Charlton

    Sign Up to The Mental Edge

    Join David @ The Sports Psychology Hub

    Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn

    Relevant Podcast Episodes

    Ep003: Peter Ramage – Developing a Premier League Mindset

    Ep105: Hannah Bromley – Overcoming Psychological Challenges in Professional Women’s Football

    Ep120: David Charlton – Sport Coach Development: Helping Athletes Perform Better by Adapting How You Communicate

    Ep151: Compilation – Football Psychology: 50 Ways You Can Improve Your Performance

    Ep161: Paul Phillips – How to Create a Culture of High Performance in Professional Rugby Union

    Relevant Blogs

    Blog: 5 Reasons Team Captains Should Work with a Sports Psychologist

    Blog: 3 Tips to Deal with Bullying in Sport

    Blog: Communicating with Children in Sport

    Blog: Why You Should Recognise The Power of Your Words

    Blog: How Coaches Can Help Athletes Deal with Mistakes

    Valuable Resources

    Football or Soccer Psychology Resources

    Sports Psychology Case Studies

    IF YOU ENJOYED TODAY'S SHOW PLEASE SHARE

    SUBSCRIBE AND LISTEN ON YOUR FAVOURITE AUDIO PLATFORM

    Also, kindly consider taking the 60-seconds it takes to leave an honest review and rating for the podcast on iTunes, they’re extremely helpful when it comes to the ranking of the show and we read every single one of them!

    David Charlton

    Best Wishes 

    David Charlton

    Global Sports Psychologist who is located near Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK and willing to travel Internationally.  David also uses online video conferencing software (Zoom, Facetime, WhatsApp) on a regular basis and has clients who he has supported in USA, Canada, South America, UAE, Australian and New Zealand.  

    Managing Director – Inspiring Sporting Excellence and Founder of The Sports Psychology Hub.  With over 10 years experience supporting athletes, coaches, parents and teams to achieve their goals, quickly. 

    T: +44 7734 697769

    E: [email protected]

    Search Our Sports Psychology Website

    Popular Categories

    Join Our Online Community Now!

    Mental Edge Newsletter

    Are you an athlete, coach or parent that would like to learn how to create sustainable high performance? Receive our free regular newsletter, where we share proven mental toughness and high performance tips and strategies. If you want some support and motivation straight to your inbox, then sign up below.

      We won't send you spam. Unsubscribe at any time.

      How to Develop and Implement Mental Health Literacy Strategies

      EP 158 Episode Cover Paul Gorczynski

      How to Develop and Implement Mental Health Literacy Strategies

      Paul Gorczynski

      Paul Gorczynski, PhD, HCPC, CPsychol, AFBPsS: A Senior Lecturer and Chartered and Practitioner Psychologist. Paul has consulted for sporting organizations (e.g., IOC) and governments (e.g., a Women and Equalities Committee, UK Parliament on LGBTQ+ mental health service use and the Colombian Ministry of Sport on mental health literacy).

      Paul has also developed and delivered training programmes on mental health for BASES and the IOC Medical and Scientific Committee (see below):

      BASES Mental Health in Sport and Exercise units

      Global Diversity in the World of Sport and Performance: The Link Between Culture and Mental Health Webinar

      IOC Mental Health in Elite Athletes Toolkit

      Paul Gorczynski’s contact details and research publications

      Mental Health in sport is a topic which over the last decade has become more significant and a big talking point with many elite athletes and coaches openly talking about their personal challenges and struggles.  Yet do clubs and organisations take their needs seriously? In some cases, this is arguable.  Though, thankfully it is changing for the better.

      Today’s guest, Dr Paul Gorczynski and I discuss this topic where he talks about his interest in mental health, his research in the development and implementation of mental health literacy strategies.  He shares some great advice for decision makers in organisations as well as useful ideas for Sport and Exercise Psychologists who have an interest in mental health and psychological well-being.

      Key Learnings

      • Mental health literacy refers to the knowledge and understanding of mental health, including the ability to recognize signs and symptoms of mental illness, understand the causes and risk factors, and know how to access appropriate resources and support.
      • Mental Health Literacy projects Paul has been involved with include work with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) where he looked at improving diagnosis and treatments for elite athletes and shifting the culture in relation to how mental health was viewed.
      • Athletes have a life outside of sport therefore a holistic approach is required.
      • As a Sport and Exercise Psychologist it is essential to recognise the limits of what you know and can help someone.  Having a clear referral process to more qualified mental health practitioners is essential.
      • Helping people in sporting clubs and organisations to engage in open and informed conversations about mental health and reducing the stigma surrounding mental health and well-being is a large part of mental health literacy policies.
      • Having mental health literacy is important for individuals to take care of their own mental health.
      • Mental health literacy can support athletes or coaches who may be struggling with mental health issues.  It can also help by increasing awareness and understanding, promoting early intervention and treatment, and improving overall mental health outcomes.

      Connect with David Charlton

      Sign Up to The Mental Edge

      Join David @ The Sports Psychology Hub

      Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn

      Connect with Dr Paul Gorczynski

      Website

      Email

      Relevant Podcast Episodes

      Ep065: Dr Amy Izycky – Encouraging Mentally Healthy Cultures in Sport

      Ep066: Marilyn Okoro – Mental Health and Resilience: Lessons from an Olympic Medalist

      Ep113: Polly Brennan – The Relationship Between Mental Fitness, Mental Health and Mental Toughness

      Ep123: Richard Dorney MBE – Supporting People: What Can You Learn About Resilience From The Military

      Ep128: Paula Eddy-Wilcox – Can You Show Vulnerability and Be Mentally Tough? Yes!

      Relevant Blogs

      Blog – Make Better Decisions to Help Your Sport Performance

      Blog – 5 Ways to Create a Psychological Safe Sporting Environment

      Blog – 3 Tips to Deal with Bullying in Sport

      Blog – Creating a Mentally Healthy Sporting Environment

      Blog – Life After Professional Sport and its Challenges

      IF YOU ENJOYED TODAY'S SHOW PLEASE SHARE

      SUBSCRIBE AND LISTEN ON YOUR FAVOURITE AUDIO PLATFORM

      Also, kindly consider taking the 60-seconds it takes to leave an honest review and rating for the podcast on iTunes, they’re extremely helpful when it comes to the ranking of the show and we read every single one of them!

      David Charlton

      Best Wishes 

      David Charlton

      Global Sports Psychologist who is located near Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK and willing to travel Internationally.  David also uses online video conferencing software (Zoom, Facetime, WhatsApp) on a regular basis and has clients who he has supported in USA, Canada, South America, UAE, Australian and New Zealand.  

      Managing Director – Inspiring Sporting Excellence and Founder of The Sports Psychology Hub.  With over 10 years experience supporting athletes, coaches, parents and teams to achieve their goals, quickly. 

      T: +44 7734 697769

      E: [email protected]

      Search Our Sports Psychology Website

      Popular Categories

      Join Our Online Community Now!

      Mental Edge Newsletter

      Are you an athlete, coach or parent that would like to learn how to create sustainable high performance? Receive our free regular newsletter, where we share proven mental toughness and high performance tips and strategies. If you want some support and motivation straight to your inbox, then sign up below.

        We won't send you spam. Unsubscribe at any time.

        30 Ways to Optimise Your Performance and Mental Health

        EP 152 30 Ways to Optimise Your Performance and Mental Health

        30 Ways to Optimise Your Performance and Mental Health Welcome to episode #152 of Demystifying Mental Toughness.  This week we bring to you the 3rd of 4 compilation episodes.  The key takeaways from this episode come from the world of business and entrepreneurship and lessons from the military.  Mental fitness, mental health, motivation and the

        Mental Strength: What You Can Learn About Resilience From The Special Forces

        EP 144 Episode Cover Jon Watkins

        Mental Strength: What You Can Learn About Resilience From The Special Forces

        Mental Strength What You Can Learn About Resilience From The Special Forces

        Jon Watkins is the co-owner of the multi-award-winning Resilience Development Co. and former special forces soldier. A specialist resilience and transformation coach who develops the skills and behaviours that enable people and teams to perform, adapt and thrive during periods of high pressure, change and uncertainty.

        In today’s episode I chat with Jon Watkins a resilience and transformation coach and a former special forces soldier.  Jon shares insights into some challenges that he overcame in the military and the importance of mindset.  Goal setting is introduced, concepts such as self-leadership, natural resilience, adaptive resilience and psychological safety we also touch on and a lot more.  Enjoy tuning in!

        Key Learning Points:

        • The selection process in the special forces produced likeminded mentally and physically robust individuals who shared collective goals and went on to create a fantastic environment to work in.
        • Self-leadership was a huge part of the special forces.
        • My comfort zone was pushed to its maximum.
        • When considering goal setting, relating it back to your values is essential.
        • Chunking down your goals is a skill that anyone can develop.
        • Mental Toughness is built around that perseverance, never giving up element to it and being disciplined to live through your values.
        • Resilience in general is about bouncing back.
        • Natural resilience is the resilience that we’re born with.
        • Adaptive resilience is heavily influenced by our environment.

        Connect with Jon Watkins

        LinkedIn

        Website

        Connect with David Charlton

        Download THE FOCUSED ATHLETE CHECKLIST

        Join David @ The Sports Psychology Hub

        Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn

        Other Useful Podcast Episodes

        Ep065: Dr Amy Izycky – Encouraging Mentally Healthy Cultures in Sport

        Ep066: Marilyn Okoro – Mental Health and Resilience: Lessons from an Olympic Medalist

        Ep114: Tim Bradshaw – Because I Can – How To Get Out Of Your Own Way

        Ep123: Richard Dorney – Supporting People: What Can You Learn About Resilience From The Military

        Ep140: Chris Cook – How to Improve Your Mental Strength: Secrets from an Olympian

        Other Useful Resources linked to Resilience

        Blog – 5 Ways to Create a Psychological Safe Sporting Environment

        Blog – 3 Tips to Deal with Bullying in Sport

        Blog – How to Find Your Why 

        Blog – Mental Health Guidance for Coaches When Supporting Athletes

        Blog – Resilient and Mentally Tough: 9 Things You Can Learn From Tiger Woods

        IF YOU ENJOYED TODAY'S SHOW PLEASE SHARE

        SUBSCRIBE AND LISTEN ON YOUR FAVOURITE AUDIO PLATFORM

        Also, kindly consider taking the 60-seconds it takes to leave an honest review and rating for the podcast on iTunes, they’re extremely helpful when it comes to the ranking of the show and we read every single one of them!

        David Charlton

        Best Wishes 

        David Charlton

        Global Sports Psychologist who is located near Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK and willing to travel Internationally.  David also uses online video conferencing software (Zoom, Facetime, WhatsApp) on a regular basis and has clients who he has supported in USA, Canada, South America, UAE, Australian and New Zealand.  

        Managing Director – Inspiring Sporting Excellence and Founder of The Sports Psychology Hub.  With over 10 years experience supporting athletes, coaches, parents and teams to achieve their goals, quickly. 

        T: +44 7734 697769

        E: [email protected]

        Search Our Sports Psychology Website

        Popular Categories

        Join Our Online Community Now!

        Mental Edge Newsletter

        Are you an athlete, coach or parent that would like to learn how to create sustainable high performance? Receive our free regular newsletter, where we share proven mental toughness and high performance tips and strategies. If you want some support and motivation straight to your inbox, then sign up below.

          We won't send you spam. Unsubscribe at any time.

          How to Improve Your Mental Strength: Secrets from an Olympian

          EP 140 Episode Cover Chris Cook

          How to Improve Your Mental Strength: Secrets from an Olympian

          Chris Cook

          Chris Cook is a former double Olympian & Double Commonwealth Champion.  After competing for Great Britain for nearly 10 years, he hung up the trunks and retired from international swimming and began working with businesses/organisations far and wide to help inspire, mentor and coach people to embrace ‘challenge and change’ for their optimal performance. Chris has built a reputation as a motivational speaker throughout the last 7 years working from referral to referral, sharing his story and the lessons learnt from the journey with over 400,000 people. 

          Chris and his wife Erica also run their own Learn to swim business – ‘Swim Buddies’ which has seen the business (located in Darlington, UK) grow from 7 swimmers in their first week in September 2014 through to over 1000 children swimming with Swim Buddies every week.

          Chris’s coaching, speaking and mentoring is centred around personal development. Whether it’s in the water helping swimmers or on dry land in business and life, Chris believes that success is something you attract from the person you become.

          In this episode 140, double Olympian and former Commonwealth champion swimmer, Chris Cook joined me.  We discussed his journey to becoming an Olympian and his role now as a motivational speaker and executive coach.  Different obstacles that he overcame were also talking points, as were how he sets goals and works to achieve them.  Chris also shares many great questions that you can ask yourself and what sports performers can learn from CEOs in the business world.

          Key Learning Points:

          • Having people that I was accountable to as a child was important.
          • My biggest fear was getting to the end of something and realising I hadn’t tried hard enough.
          • There were times when I got over-anxious because I wanted it too much.
          • I realised to progress I needed to become great the stuff I wasn’t good at, goal setting was one thing.
          • People in the business world would benefit from looking at how they view their recovery and make necessary changes.
          • How can I swim 2 lengths of the pool faster was a question I often asked myself.
          • Seeing difficult moments as growth opportunities and being brave enough to face them is vital.

          Connect with Chris Cook

          Website

          LinkedIn

          Connect with David Charlton

          Sign Up to Conversations with Kids

          Download THE FOCUSED ATHLETE CHECKLIST

          Join David @ The Sports Psychology Hub

          Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn

          To Listen to Relevant Podcast Episodes

          Ep033: Aly Dixon – Mental Toughness Lessons from a World Champion

          Ep048: Natalie Hurdley – How to Build Mental Toughness through Powerlifting

          Ep066: Marilyn Okoro – Mental Health and Resilience: Lessons from an Olympic Medalist

          Ep110: Dan Steele – How to Increase Mental Fortitude: Secrets from an Olympian

          Other Helpful Resources

          Driscolls Model of Reflection

          Blog – Do You Really Want to Succeed

          Blog – 12 Reasons Why You Won’t Achieve Your Potential

          Blog: 9 Tips for Children from Olympians

          IF YOU ENJOYED TODAY'S SHOW PLEASE SHARE

          SUBSCRIBE AND LISTEN ON YOUR FAVOURITE AUDIO PLATFORM

          Also, kindly consider taking the 60-seconds it takes to leave an honest review and rating for the podcast on iTunes, they’re extremely helpful when it comes to the ranking of the show and we read every single one of them!

          David Charlton

          Best Wishes 

          David Charlton

          Global Sports Psychologist who is located near Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK and willing to travel Internationally.  David also uses online video conferencing software (Zoom, Facetime, WhatsApp) on a regular basis and has clients who he has supported in USA, Canada, South America, UAE, Australian and New Zealand.  

          Managing Director – Inspiring Sporting Excellence and Founder of The Sports Psychology Hub.  With over 10 years experience supporting athletes, coaches, parents and teams to achieve their goals, quickly. 

          T: +44 7734 697769

          E: [email protected]

          Search Our Sports Psychology Website

          Popular Categories

          Join Our Online Community Now!

          Mental Edge Newsletter

          Are you an athlete, coach or parent that would like to learn how to create sustainable high performance? Receive our free regular newsletter, where we share proven mental toughness and high performance tips and strategies. If you want some support and motivation straight to your inbox, then sign up below.

            We won't send you spam. Unsubscribe at any time.

            Steve Beharall’s Journey from Football Coach to CEO

            EP 139 Episode Cover Steve Beharall

            Steve Beharall’s Journey from Football Coach to CEO

            Steve Beharall

            Steve Beharall is the Head of Newcastle United Foundation who are the charity of Newcastle United.  

             Steve has the responsibility for leading the Foundations Senior Management Team with accountability for strategy, business planning, leadership, management, governance, finance and risk.

            Since 2016 Steve has played a strategic role in significantly growing the Foundations income by developing innovative programmes and helping grow services to generate fees, sales and grants.

            Newcastle United Foundation employ over 200 staff and have been recognised nationally at the 2021 Football Business Awards as one of the best community organisation in the Premier League and was also awarded the North East Charity of the year In October 2021 and then in December was again recognised with the International Sports Award for Professional Clubs (Community).

            In March 2022 the Foundation opened NUCASTLE a world class, £8.5m purpose built capital development in Newcastle City centre to further expand the work of the Foundation and in July 2022 NUCASTLE was recognised at the Construction News Awards as best national project (under £20m)

            In episode 139 of Demystifying Mental Toughness I had the pleasure of speaking to the head of The Newcastle United Foundation, Steve Beharall.  Steve shared his inspiring journey from being a part time football coach to where he is today.  Lessons that he has learned, challenges he’s overcome as well as insights into initiatives that the foundation are involved in and what the future holds.  Steve also passes on some advice to the future generation of coaches on opportunities for them.

            Key Learning Points:

            • Whilst as an academy coach at Newcastle United, I realised that all I wanted was to help kids with football.
            • When I decided to take a different direction in the Newcastle United Foundation I spent the first three years of my time here working closely with my predecessor learning valuable lessons.  
            • Since I started we’ve gone from 65 to 240 full time staff and 60 sessional staff. 
            • In 2022, we’ve grown the turnover from £3 million to £6 million and expanded on programs, by 80% in the last three years.
            • Newcastle United Foundation Case Studies
            • NUcastle is an important part of the community and service sector across the North East of England.
            • Whether you’re a coach or a leader, relationships have to built on trust, respect and honesty.
            • It’s important to be mindful of your mental health.

            Connect with Steve Beharall

            The Newcastle United Foundation Website

            LinkedIn

            Connect with David Charlton

            Sign Up to Conversations with Kids

            Download THE FOCUSED ATHLETE CHECKLIST

            Join David @ The Sports Psychology Hub

            Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn

            To Listen to Relevant Podcast Episodes

            Ep027: Natalie Henderson – How to Develop Mental Toughness with Young Footballers 

            Ep064: Edu Rubio – How to Support Young Footballers 

            Ep 084: Dr Jim Afremow and Phil White – Mental Toughness and The Leaders Mind 

            Ep092: Dr James Hegarty – ACT in Sport, Improving Performance through Mindfulness

            Ep111: Michael Caulfield – How to be an Effective Sports Psychologist in Elite Professional Football 

            Other Helpful Resources

            Psychology in Football or Soccer Library

            Blog: How Mentally Healthy is Your Clubs Sporting Environment

            Blog: Does Your Warm Up Influence How You Perform?

            Blog: 5 Ways to Create a Psychological Safe Sporting Environment

            Blog: 3 Tips to Deal with Bullying in Sport

            Vlog: How Mental Toughness Helps us Understand Psychological Safety with Doug Strycharczyk 

            IF YOU ENJOYED TODAY'S SHOW PLEASE SHARE

            SUBSCRIBE AND LISTEN ON YOUR FAVOURITE AUDIO PLATFORM

            Also, kindly consider taking the 60-seconds it takes to leave an honest review and rating for the podcast on iTunes, they’re extremely helpful when it comes to the ranking of the show and we read every single one of them!

            David Charlton

            Best Wishes 

            David Charlton

            Global Sports Psychologist who is located near Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK and willing to travel Internationally.  David also uses online video conferencing software (Zoom, Facetime, WhatsApp) on a regular basis and has clients who he has supported in USA, Canada, South America, UAE, Australian and New Zealand.  

            Managing Director – Inspiring Sporting Excellence and Founder of The Sports Psychology Hub.  With over 10 years experience supporting athletes, coaches, parents and teams to achieve their goals, quickly. 

            T: +44 7734 697769

            E: [email protected]

            Search Our Sports Psychology Website

            Popular Categories

            Join Our Online Community Now!

            Mental Edge Newsletter

            Are you an athlete, coach or parent that would like to learn how to create sustainable high performance? Receive our free regular newsletter, where we share proven mental toughness and high performance tips and strategies. If you want some support and motivation straight to your inbox, then sign up below.

              We won't send you spam. Unsubscribe at any time.

              Overcoming Tough Times in Professional Women’s Football and Bouncing Back Stronger

              EP 136 Episode Cover Charlotte Potts

              Overcoming Tough Times in Professional Women's Football and Bouncing Back Stronger

              Charlotte Potts

              Charlotte Potts is a professional footballer who has played for Hibernian Football Club, Sunderland AFC and FC Lugano.  She is also an ambassador for Gateshead FC and can be heard on local radio stations on a regular basis.  Charlotte has an interest in mental health and discrimination and works closely with well recognised charity Show Racism the Red Card too.

              In this episode I was joined by professional footballer Charlotte Potts where we had a deep and fascinating conversation about different challenges that she has faced so far in her life and when playing Professional Women’s Football.  We went on to discuss Discrimination, Mental Health and Mindfulness too as well as a whole lot more.  It’s well worth a listen!

              Key Learning Points:

              • Charlotte’s mental health has suffered from time to time therefore she has looked to develop a high degree of self-awareness to help herself.
              • Her family was pulled apart when she was young which was difficult for everyone concerned.
              • Discrimination exists in football and in life, however progress is being made.
              • Mental Toughness in football is about coping with pain and being able to push through barriers.   
              • Charlotte has an interest in Mindfulness and regularly practices the approach.
              • Being able to take a step back has helped her with anger issues.
              • Mindfulness has also helped Charlotte see things from a fresh perspective.

              Connect with Charlotte Potts

              Instagram

              LinkedIn

              Connect with David Charlton

              Sign Up to Conversations with Kids

              Download THE FOCUSED ATHLETE CHECKLIST

              Join David @ The Sports Psychology Hub

              Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn

              To Listen to Football or Soccer Podcast Episodes

              Ep038: Taz Bricknell – Playing Professional Women’s Rugby 

              Ep092: Dr James Hegarty – ACT in Sport, Improving Performance through Mindfulness

              Ep105: Hannah Bromley – Overcoming Psychological Challenges in Elite Professional Women’s Football

              Ep111: Michael Caulfield – How to be an Effective Sports Psychologist in Elite Professional Football 

              Other Helpful Resources

              Psychology in Football or Soccer Library

              Blog: How Mentally Healthy is Your Clubs Sporting Environment

              Blog: Does Your Warm Up Influence How You Perform?

              Blog: 5 Ways to Create a Psychological Safe Sporting Environment

              Blog: Supporting a Professional Footballer during Challenging Times

              Blog: 3 Tips to Deal with Bullying in Sport

              Vlog: How Mental Toughness Helps us Understand Psychological Safety with Doug Strycharczyk 

              Guided Mindfulness Meditation Practices with Jon Kabat-Zinn

              IF YOU ENJOYED TODAY'S SHOW PLEASE SHARE

              SUBSCRIBE AND LISTEN ON YOUR FAVOURITE AUDIO PLATFORM

              Also, kindly consider taking the 60-seconds it takes to leave an honest review and rating for the podcast on iTunes, they’re extremely helpful when it comes to the ranking of the show and we read every single one of them!

              David Charlton

              Best Wishes 

              David Charlton

              Global Sports Psychologist who is located near Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK and willing to travel Internationally.  David also uses online video conferencing software (Zoom, Facetime, WhatsApp) on a regular basis and has clients who he has supported in USA, Canada, South America, UAE, Australian and New Zealand.  

              Managing Director – Inspiring Sporting Excellence and Founder of The Sports Psychology Hub.  With over 10 years experience supporting athletes, coaches, parents and teams to achieve their goals, quickly. 

              T: +44 7734 697769

              E: [email protected]

              Search Our Sports Psychology Website

              Popular Categories

              Join Our Online Community Now!

              Mental Edge Newsletter

              Are you an athlete, coach or parent that would like to learn how to create sustainable high performance? Receive our free regular newsletter, where we share proven mental toughness and high performance tips and strategies. If you want some support and motivation straight to your inbox, then sign up below.

                We won't send you spam. Unsubscribe at any time.

                David Charlton Gets Grilled By Grant Henderson

                EP 135 Episode Cover David Charlton Grant Henderson

                David Charlton Gets Grilled By Grant Henderson

                Grant Henderson

                After growing up in South Africa, Grant set out to pursue a professional rugby career which took him back and forth from SA to the UK with the culmination of one too many head injuries, leading to him hanging up his boots in just his mid 20’s. 

                On retiring from rugby and ending up in the North East of England an opportunity in the recruitment world opened up and for the next 5 years Grant worked as a recruitment consultant, regional trainer and branch manager. 

                In 2009, with the grip of the global financial crisis being felt, he opened his own consultancy business and stated to advise on coach business owners on how to re-focus their sales teams to navigate the changing market. In 2010, Grant partnered with his parents who are still resident in SA, to take the personality assessment they had developed for marriage guidance counselling and create an online application with some contextualisation for the British market. 

                The i3 profiling platform and associated tools have all followed since and today the online assessment has been carried out by over 25000 people all over the world. The i3 tool is all about identifying individuality and increasing self awareness to support each of us in reaching our full potential. 

                Since 2017 Grant has worked directly with an international recruitment company, The MCG Group, and in his capacity as COO gets to apply what he has learned through sport, team building and leadership development in a fast paced and high growth environment. 

                At home he is husband to Erin and father to 3 young children aged 5-12, always trying to stay fit and healthy in order to be as active a dad as possible. 

                In today’s episode, I chat with Grant Henderson a former professional rugby player, Chief Operations Officer at The MCG Group and Co-Founder of i3profiling.  Grant goes on to ask me many questions about the Demystifying Mental Toughness podcast, mental toughness, personality and environment.  By listening to the episode you’ll learn more about how I work as a Sports Psychologist, about the complexities that surround sport performance, reaching your potential and a whole lot more.  

                Key Learning Points:

                • Podcasting is a big commitment and has been challenging at times however I really enjoy recording the episodes and the feedback that we get highlights that it makes a positive difference to people’s lives, which is my objective.
                • As a Mental Toughness license holder, where I qualified through AQR International’s training.  I sometimes use the MTQ Plus psychometric to measure clients Mental Toughness at the start and end of programs.  
                • Incorporated into some programs are personality assessments too, where I find i3Profiling compliments the MTQ Plus.
                • An i3 profile presented in the right way can be a big confidence booster, I particularly like the environmental analysis which looks at task and social leadership styles.  This can tell me a lot about how a person should train and mentally prepare themselves.
                • Both psychometric and profiling tools aid self-awareness and can be a quick way of finding out about a person’s complexities and save an enormous amount of time in the consultancy process.  
                • Without self-awareness you’ll continue to make poor decisions and not be as successful and happy as you could be.
                • Mental toughness can be a good thing, however even the mentally tough fall into traps, again highlighting the need for self-awareness.

                Connect with Grant Henderson

                LinkedIn

                i3 Profiling Website

                The MCG Group Website

                Connect with David Charlton

                Sign Up to Conversations with Kids

                Download THE FOCUSED ATHLETE CHECKLIST

                Join David @ The Sports Psychology Hub

                Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn

                Other Useful Podcast Episodes

                Ep034 – David Charlton Gets Grilled By Nathan Sherratt

                Ep050: Doug Strycharczyk, Peter Clough MBE & Dr John Perry – Mental Strength Does Not Guarantee Success 

                Ep084: Jim Afremow and Phil White – Mental Toughness and The Leaders Mind

                Ep121: Doug Strycharczyk and Dr John Perry – What Is New? Developments in Mental Toughness Research and Practice

                Ep133: Christina Flach – Why Mental Toughness is Important: Lessons from Sport, Business and Loss

                Other Useful Resources 

                Blog – 5 Ways to Create a Psychological Safe Sporting Environment

                Blog – Mental Health Guidance for Coaches When Supporting Athletes

                Blog – Mental Toughness is a Hugely Valuable Trait

                Blog – Make Better Decisions to Help Your Sport Performance

                Sport Psychology for Children and Parents 

                IF YOU ENJOYED TODAY'S SHOW PLEASE SHARE

                SUBSCRIBE AND LISTEN ON YOUR FAVOURITE AUDIO PLATFORM

                Also, kindly consider taking the 60-seconds it takes to leave an honest review and rating for the podcast on iTunes, they’re extremely helpful when it comes to the ranking of the show and we read every single one of them!

                David Charlton

                Best Wishes 

                David Charlton

                Global Sports Psychologist who is located near Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK and willing to travel Internationally.  David also uses online video conferencing software (Zoom, Facetime, WhatsApp) on a regular basis and has clients who he has supported in USA, Canada, South America, UAE, Australian and New Zealand.  

                Managing Director – Inspiring Sporting Excellence and Founder of The Sports Psychology Hub.  With over 10 years experience supporting athletes, coaches, parents and teams to achieve their goals, quickly. 

                T: +44 7734 697769

                E: [email protected]

                Search Our Sports Psychology Website

                Popular Categories

                Join Our Online Community Now!

                Mental Edge Newsletter

                Are you an athlete, coach or parent that would like to learn how to create sustainable high performance? Receive our free regular newsletter, where we share proven mental toughness and high performance tips and strategies. If you want some support and motivation straight to your inbox, then sign up below.

                  We won't send you spam. Unsubscribe at any time.

                  How to Deal with Self-Criticism using Self Compassion – Part 1

                  EP 129 Episode Cover David Charlton

                  How to Deal with Self-Criticism using Self Compassion – Part 1

                  David Charlton

                  By working with David Charlton, you and your organisation will be better equipped to rise to modern day challenges and better informed to thrive on and off the pitch, course or court.  Where he inspires individuals and teams to:

                  • Cope with pressure and challenges more effectively
                  • Maintain positive mental health
                  • Compete with confidence more often
                  • Manage your emotions better
                  • Improve your commitments levels

                  David is a Mental Toughness Practitioner, as well as a Health Care and Professions Council (HCPC) Registered Sport and Exercise Psychologist.  He has successfully supported athletes, teams and organisations for over 10 years in order to ensure that they perform at their maximum more often.

                  He has a comprehensive knowledge around the development of Mental Toughness, a plastic personality trait, which determines or limits people to deal effectively with change, challenges and stressors. In today’s climate, during the Coronavirus pandemic this quality is becoming more and more valuable to individuals, teams and organisations. 

                  This is a short solo episode and the first of 3 episodes where I share 2 reminders of what Mental Toughness is and apply it to different domains.  The first clip is from Mental Toughness pioneer, Doug Strycharczyk which was recorded in our very first episode and the second clip comes from Sebastian De Chavez an elite professional rugby player for Newcastle Falcons who appeared in episode 104.  

                  I then go on to share a case study and one helpful exercise taken from compassionate focused therapy to help people who experience self-criticism and are very hard on themselves off the back of failing or making mistakes in sport or life.

                  Key Learning Points

                  • Doug states that Mental Toughness is about “how we respond mentally to things that happen to us.” 
                  • Seb confirms this in a professional rugby setting and considers mental toughness as “being able to get your job done, when things aren’t going your way.”
                  • In sport when someone makes a mistake, often as an onlooker or spectator we are better placed to say “they’re only human” and display compassion.
                  • Yet, when we are the culprit making the mistake, we often find displaying self-compassion very tough.  For many it is virtually impossible, especially in sport when you and your performances are being judged or at least you think they are.  And your emotions are so up and down because you are striving for competence.
                  • A common thing people get wrong when thinking of being self-compassionate or being kind to yourself is that it equals self-pity or that you are being “soft”.  
                  • Self-compassion doesn’t mean that you are lacking in motivation either.
                  • Understanding the pain that you are put yourself through by being self-critical is vital and by trying to feel compassionate you can empower yourself to make better decisions.
                  • Encouraging, loving and supportive language is a much more powerful motivator than negativity and fear which is often a habit a lot of people can slip into, especially in a sporting environment.

                  Connect with David Charlton

                  Download THE FOCUSED ATHLETE CHECKLIST

                  Join David @ The Sports Psychology Hub

                  Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn

                  Relevant Podcast Episodes

                  Ep001: Doug Strycharczyk – The Importance of Mental Toughness

                  Ep104: Seb De Chaves – The Psychological Demands of Elite Professional Rugby

                  Ep065: Dr Amy Izycky – Encouraging Mentally Healthy Cultures in Sport

                  Ep128: Paula Eddy-Wilcox – Can You Show Vulnerability and Be Mentally Tough? Yes!

                  Ep105: Hannah Bromley – Overcoming Psychological Challenges in Professional Women’s Football

                  Other Relevant Blogs and Resources

                  Blog – 5 Coaching Tips To Develop Mentally Tough Footballers

                  Blog – Coach Development Helping Athletes Overcome Fear Of Failure 

                  Blog – Mental Health Guidance For Coaches When Supporting Athletes

                  Blog – 5 Ways To Create A Psychological Safe Sporting Environment

                  Blog – 3 Tips To Deal With Bullying In Sport

                  Kristin Neff Website on Self-Compassion

                  IF YOU ENJOYED TODAY'S SHOW PLEASE SHARE

                  SUBSCRIBE AND LISTEN ON YOUR FAVOURITE AUDIO PLATFORM

                  Also, kindly consider taking the 60-seconds it takes to leave an honest review and rating for the podcast on iTunes, they’re extremely helpful when it comes to the ranking of the show and we read every single one of them!

                  David Charlton

                  Best Wishes 

                  David Charlton

                  Global Sports Psychologist who is located near Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK and willing to travel Internationally.  David also uses online video conferencing software (Zoom, Facetime, WhatsApp) on a regular basis and has clients who he has supported in USA, Canada, South America, UAE, Australian and New Zealand.  

                  Managing Director – Inspiring Sporting Excellence and Founder of The Sports Psychology Hub.  With over 10 years experience supporting athletes, coaches, parents and teams to achieve their goals, quickly. 

                  T: +44 7734 697769

                  E: [email protected]

                  Search Our Sports Psychology Website

                  Popular Categories

                  Join Our Online Community Now!

                  Mental Edge Newsletter

                  Are you an athlete, coach or parent that would like to learn how to create sustainable high performance? Receive our free regular newsletter, where we share proven mental toughness and high performance tips and strategies. If you want some support and motivation straight to your inbox, then sign up below.

                    We won't send you spam. Unsubscribe at any time.