Recently I had the pleasure of watching a ESPN documentary titled “30 for 30 This Magic Moment”. As I watched the story, it had me go down memory lane about the Orlando Magic. I remember the dynamics of the team players such as Shaq, Penny, Brian, Horace, and of course the veteran of the team Nick Anderson. During the documentary, it spotlighted a game where Nick Anderson did not do his best. As a matter of fact, he did his worst. After this play, Nick was not the same for future games. It was very clear that his poor performance was a mental block for him to continue the next game (and future games) to his full potential.

Many athletes encounter mental blocks. A mental block is an obstacle that mentally prevent athletes from performing a skill to their full potential. Many feel that if they ignore it, it will go away. They feel that it is not a big issue and they choose not to deal with it. Many do not realize that they can overcome the issue if they have seek professional help. Seeking help to balance your mentality does not mean that your emotions are out of whack. It simply means that you are dealing with an issue that is effecting your process of your career.

Going to counseling, whether it is a mental health counselor or sports psychologist, is a great investment for any athlete. They can help you deal with your mental blocks which are caused from the sport and those not related to the sport. It is imperative that athletes know the importance of investing in their mental health to continue their balance in life. Sadly, Nick Anderson never released his mental block. Although he continued his basketball. I know that he continued to play basketball after the Orlando Magic. Presently he is working in community relations with the Orlando Magic. Presently he is working in community relations with the Orlando Magic.

Photocredits coachphil.com and The Undefeated

Facing A Mental Block

[email protected]