How to Have an Infinite Mindset in Hockey

Years ago I had the privilege of reading Simon Sinek's book, Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action. It changed my life then and continues to inspire me today by challenging to think different about my leadership style and understand the "why" behind any of my personal and professional pursuits. It was a game changer.

The Infinite Mindset

So, when Simon Sinek released his Infinite Game book in 2019, I had to read it. I wondered if it would have the same professional and personal impact on my life. The short answer is: yes. Within the pages of that book, he introduces his concept of the "infinite mindset." An infinite mindset is one that is focused on staying in the game for the long haul, rather than just achieving short-term success. It is a mindset not limited by the boundaries of the present moment or the outcome of a single game or season. Rather, it is rooted in the idea that there is no finish line in life, and that success is not a destination but a journey.

An Infinite Mindset in Hockey

In hockey, having an infinite mindset means players are focused on becoming better both as individuals and as a team. It is about being invested in the long term and striving for growth every day, every week, every season, and every year.

So, how is an infinite mindset accomplished in hockey. I have provided 5 specific recommendatiosn below:

1. Focus on the Process, Not the Outcome

One of the keys to having an infinite mindset in hockey is to focus on the process of improving, rather than just the outcome of winning or losing. It is developing an appreciation for the protocols and processes which are in place and how they will contribute to your personal and professional growth. Perhaps it is a drill you hate but you know it makes you a better skater. It may even a coach who seems to rigid but you have grown under his or her leadership. This means players should be focused on developing their skills, teamwork, and mental fitness, rather than just on winning games. By focusing on the process, players can develop a growth mindset that will help them become better over time.

2. Embrace Failure

In hockey, players are going to fail at some point. I have failed. You will fail. Failure is inevitable. However, how players respond to failure is what sets apart those with an infinite mindset from those without. Instead of dwelling on failure, players with an infinite mindset should use it as an opportunity to learn and grow. They should analyze what went wrong and use that knowledge to improve their game.

3. Develop a Sense of Purpose

Players with an infinite mindset have a sense of purpose which goes beyond just winning games. They are thinking about the here and now but they are also invested in their own personal legacy. They also care and take pride in the hockey club. Hockey is more than just a game to them. It is a metaphor for life and they take every aspect of the game seriously and handle it with respect.

4. Stay Committed to Continuous Improvement

Continuous improvement which is also known as kaizen is also about getting better and better each day. Players with an infinite mindset are committed to this outcome. They are always looking for ways to develop their skills and become better players. This means that they are willing to put in the extra work to improve their game, whether it is through extra practice or seeking out coaching and feedback.

5. Build a supportive team culture

And finally, having an infinite mindset is not just an individual pursuit. It is also about building a supportive team culture that emphasizes commitment to the values and recommendations shared above. Players should work together to create a supportive and encouraging team environment that promotes growth and development every single day.

Final Thoughts

An infinite mindset in hockey is all about focusing on the long-term goals of continuous improvement and development. By embracing failure as an opportunity to learn, developing a sense of purpose, staying committed to continuous improvement, and building a supportive team culture, players can develop an infinite mindset which will help them become successful both on and off the ice.