Achieving Flow State in Hockey: The Art of Not Overthinking

One of the ultimate goals in hockey is to reach a state of flow – that magical place where everything feels effortless, and your performance soars. But, ironically, to achieve this elusive flow state, you need to learn how to stop overthinking. It starts by understanding three key concepts that help hockey players achieve that state of flow on the ice, allowing them to perform at their absolute best.

1. Focusing on the Macro

To achieve a state of flow in hockey, it's crucial to focus on the macro aspects of the game. This means stepping back from the granular details of your skills and abilities. Ideally, your skills are honed enough that you can trust your body to perform without conscious interference. To apply this concept effectively:

Exercise: Consider the larger picture of your game. Ask yourself, "What's my role on the team, and how does it contribute to our success?" Write down your response and reflect on how you can focus on your overall contribution rather than getting bogged down in the small details.

2. Trusting Your Instincts

Timothy Gallwey's classic concept of trusting Self 2 over Self 1 is particularly relevant to hockey. Self 1 is the part of your mind that overthinks, while Self 2 is the intuitive, instinctive part of you that executes actions without conscious intervention. To reach a flow state, it is essential to let go of self-doubt and allow your instincts to guide you:

Exercise: Take a moment to recall a time when you performed exceptionally well in a game. What did it feel like? Write down your feelings and thoughts. Now, consider how you can tap into those feelings more often and trust your instincts. Practice visualization exercises to enhance your connection with Self 2 and your confidence in your abilities.

3. Having Fun

Hockey is an exhilarating sport, but it can become a grind when you lose sight of why you started playing in the first place. To reach a state of flow, you need to enjoy the game, relish the camaraderie, and embrace the challenges:

Exercise: Write down what initially drew you to hockey and the aspects of the game that still make you smile. Make a list of the most enjoyable moments you've had on the ice. Keep this list with you as a reminder of why you play hockey. Share these moments with your teammates to create a positive atmosphere that encourages fun and enjoyment in the game.

Final Thoughts

Flow state in hockey is attainable when you stop overthinking and start focusing on the macro elements of the game, trust your instincts, and, most importantly, have fun on the ice. Use the exercises provided to help you work on these three critical aspects of achieving flow.

As you practice these concepts, you will find that your performance improves, your enjoyment of the game deepens, and you become more connected to the essence of what drew you to hockey in the first place. Ultimately, reaching a state of flow is about finding the perfect balance between effort and ease, allowing you to play at your best while embracing the joy of the game.