A growth mindset is essential for a youth athlete to become the athlete—and person—they are capable of becoming. An athlete with a growth mindset isn’t satisfied with the status quo. They are always looking for ways to improve, grow, and become better than they were yesterday.
Developing a growth mindset isn’t easy—and maintaining it can be even harder. Life happens to all of us. Adversity shows up when we least expect it. Sometimes, we need help staying on track in the pursuit of our goals.
A prime example for athletes is sustaining an injury in the middle of a strong season. Everything is clicking. All the hard work is paying off. And suddenly, it’s over—just like that. How an athlete responds in moments like these often defines their mindset far more than success ever could.
What Is a Growth Mindset?
A growth mindset begins when we start to lose our fear of failure.
It’s driven by our ability to view challenges as opportunities instead of obstacles, and possibilities instead of impossibilities. But this shift starts with how we view failure itself. When we learn to see failure as a tool for growth—not a final outcome—we begin developing a true growth mindset.
This doesn’t mean we recklessly take chances or ignore reality. Growth still requires wisdom and self-awareness. Combining realism with a growth mindset may mean moving slower than we’d like or approaching opportunities differently—but growth is still happening. The key is moving forward with intention and awareness, not fear.
A Growth Mindset Is a Positive Mindset
One of the first steps in developing a growth mindset is practicing positivity in your thinking. And yes—positivity can be practiced.
For athletes working to improve their mindset, I often recommend starting with daily positive reinforcement. Ask yourself: What am I telling myself every day, especially when things don’t go my way?
Writing positive messages can help reinforce healthier thinking patterns. This could be journaling, short daily affirmations, or even using images or quotes that resonate with you. Over time, this daily practice helps rewire your internal dialogue. When negative moments arise—and they will—your mind has something positive to return to. Building a positive athlete mindset is key.
Another important step is removing negativity where possible. If certain environments, influences, or relationships consistently pull you into a negative space, it’s worth asking: Should this have a place in my life right now? Developing a positive mindset can be challenging, especially for young athletes. Don’t allow others to pull you away from the growth you’re working toward.
A Growth Mindset Is a “Consistently Intentional” Mindset
To truly develop a mindset that sets you apart, you must become consistently intentional in how you think and act.
Mindset growth doesn’t happen when effort is sporadic. It’s like wanting to become a great three-point shooter—you can’t shoot 1,000 shots this week, skip the next two weeks, and expect real improvement. By the time you come back, you’re likely right where you started.
The same principle applies to mindset. You can’t work on it one day, ignore it the next, and expect meaningful progress. Know what you want to change. Know how you want to grow. Then be intentional with your thoughts and your actions—consistently. That consistency is what allows athletes to reach their potential both on and off the field.
Be the Best You: The Power Is in Your Mind
Our thoughts influence our actions. When we believe we’ll fail, failure often follows. When we believe growth is possible, we open the door to achievement.
That doesn’t mean setbacks won’t happen. It doesn’t mean the process will be easy. But belief is the first step toward progress.
Start today. Begin a growth journal. Commit to becoming more positive in how you think and respond. Over time, work toward developing a mindset that leads to growth—not one that holds you back. The goal, develop leaders beyond the scoreboard.
Be the best version of you. The power is in your mind.
BtL
If you’re looking for practical tools to help develop a growth mindset, explore our mindset and goal-setting resources for youth athletes.
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