How the Thought Programs of Love and Fear Impact Hockey Players

A few nights ago I made my first attempt to play the role of a defensemen. Keep in mind, I have been playing hockey for several years now but my roles have always been either a winger or center. Playing defense has something I have attempted in the past in open hockey sessions but never officially when it mattered - a real game. The responsibility had me feeling a bit nervous.

Enter the first period. I was on edge. I was holding my stick too tight. I was thinking more than I was playing, and I almost made a costly mistake. I was playing with fear. By the the third period, more predictability began to set in. I could read plays better. I found my footing. I started to get comfortable, and started to develop a genuine passin for the position making me more effective on my shifts. There was a dramatic difference in my playstyle. During the first period I operated in fear and by the third period I operated in love. These two thought patterns is where I want to focus our conversation.

Love as a Thought Program

Love is a thought program that is based on positivity, enthusiasm, and a desire to succeed. Love is characterized by a focus on the enjoyment of the game, the desire to improve, and a willingness to take risks. It is what emerged for me in the third period. When a player is in a state of love, they are more likely to play with confidence, creativity, and passion.

Players who use the love thought program are often the ones who take risks, make bold moves, and are not afraid to try new things. They are focused on the enjoyment of the game and are willing to put in the work to improve their skills. These players are often the ones who make the big plays and lead their teams to success.

Fear as a Thought Program

Fear, on the other hand, is a thought program that is based on negativity, anxiety, and a sense of insecurity. This was me during that first period. Fear is characterized by a focus on avoiding mistakes, playing it safe, and a lack of confidence which is exactly how I played starting off that game. When a player is in a state of fear, they are more likely to play cautiously, be indecisive, and make mistakes.

Players who use the fear thought program are often the ones who are hesitant, indecisive, and lack confidence. They are focused on avoiding mistakes and are not willing to take risks. These players are often the ones who make the costly mistakes that lead to goals against and ultimately, losses.

Practical Application

It is important for hockey players to be aware of their thought programs and to work on developing a love-based thought program. It is the only way you will see success on the ice. By focusing on positivity, enthusiasm, and a desire to succeed, players can improve their performance on the ice and achieve their goals.

Final Thoughts

The thought programs of love and fear are important concepts in hockey and can have a significant impact on a hockey player's performance. Players who use a love-based thought program are more likely to succeed on the ice and achieve their goals, while those who use a fear-based thought program may struggle to perform at their best.