The pass goes to the opponent, they run a fast break, goal. And while everyone else is already back in defence, the scene is still playing in your head. Right now determines whether it stays just one mistake.
Why one mistake often leads to the next
Your mind wants to understand the mistake – immediately. But in the game, you don't have time for that. Anyone who keeps analysing is half-absent for the next action. Then the next mistake comes, and that feels like proof.
Back in 20 seconds
- Allow yourself a quick "Blast." One word, one gesture. Don't swallow it down.
- Finish: Wipe your hands on your shorts or clap once – your signal for "done".
- Realign: What's my job now? Usually: run back, find your opponent.
- You postpone the analysis – until the timeout, the break, or after the game.
RESET
When: In the 20 seconds immediately after a mistake – a mispass, a goal conceded, a missed chance.
- 1Breathe out.
- 2Look at a fixed point outside.
- 3Relax your shoulders.
- 4Mentally state your next action.
Out of the game
Right back, second missed shot in a row. Instead of shaking your head, you wipe your hands and tell yourself "Defence, number 7." You pick up your opponent and are fully back in it for the next turnover.
After the game
Then you're allowed to look at the mistake. Two questions are enough: What happened? What will I do differently next time? After that, it's done.
Remember this
You can't undo a mistake. But you can make the next action count. Accept it, move on, new task.