Focus Cues: Building Your Inner Playbook

Every player has an inner dialogue running through their mind during competition. This self-talk, whether intentional or not, shapes performance in crucial ways. If left unchecked, this inner voice can let distractions, doubts, or negativity creep in, derailing focus and confidence. The key to overcoming this is to take control of your self-talk by crafting focus cues or performance statements—specific, task-oriented phrases that keep your attention locked on what matters most.

What Are Performance Statements?

Performance statements are concise, actionable reminders that guide your mind and body in the moment. When you repeat these statements to yourself, they tell your mind what to focus on, which then directs your body to execute the task.

Great performance statements have four essential elements:

1. Task-Oriented: They target a specific action.

2. Present-Focused: They bring your mind into the here and now.

3. Instructive: They provide clear directions for your body to follow.

4. Confident: They instill belief in your abilities.

Let’s explore how these work in practice.

Examples of Performance Statements

At BatImagine a baseball player stepping into the batter’s box. A great performance statement might sound like:“I am a great hitter. I can see any pitch. Set my feet, see the ball, let it rip!”This statement combines confidence (“I am a great hitter”), present focus (“Set my feet”), and task-specific actions (“See the ball, let it rip”).

In the OutfieldFor a center fielder:“I am a great outfielder. I can make any catch. See the ball, get a jump, and track.”This statement keeps the athlete focused on immediate actions rather than potential mistakes or external distractions.

Ichiro Suzuki: A Master of Mental Cues

One of the best examples of focus cues in baseball comes from Ichiro Suzuki, one of the most consistent hitters in MLB history. Ichiro’s success was built on his ability to remain present and task-oriented. Reflecting on his approach, he said:"I have to make good contact and keep my swing compact. That’s all I think about."

Ichiro’s focus cue, “Make good contact and keep my swing compact,” is a perfect performance statement. It is specific, simple, and entirely focused on the present moment. By zeroing in on these actions, Ichiro was able to block out distractions, remain composed under pressure, and deliver consistent results at the plate. His routine serves as a masterclass in how self-talk can elevate performance, even in the most critical moments.

Build Your Inner Playbook

Crafting performance statements tailored to your specific sport and role is essential for success. Think of them as your inner playbook—guiding your thoughts, actions, and focus during competition. Write down these statements for various scenarios and rehearse them regularly. Repetition will make them automatic when the pressure is on.

Practical Applications: For Players, Parents, and Coaches

For Players:

• What to Do: Create specific focus cues for every scenario you might face in your sport. For example, a pitcher might say, “Find the grip, hit my spot, finish strong.” Rehearse these statements during practice and games to make them second nature.

• What to Avoid: Don’t let your self-talk turn negative. Avoid thoughts like “Don’t mess this up” or “I’m terrible today.” These amplify distractions and reduce confidence.

For Parents:

• What to Do: Encourage your athlete to share their focus cues with you. Reinforce these cues by saying things like, “What’s your plan at the plate?” or “Trust your process.”

• What to Avoid: Avoid statements that add pressure or focus on outcomes, like “You have to get a hit” or “You can’t strike out here.” These shift attention to external factors.

For Coaches:

• What to Do: Help your players develop personalized focus cues during practice. Use game-like situations to teach them how to reset with a performance statement after mistakes or distractions. For example, tell them, “Take a breath, repeat your cue, and refocus on the next pitch.”

• What to Avoid: Don’t use language that highlights mistakes or emphasizes outcomes, such as “We can’t lose this game” or “Why’d you miss that play?” This creates unnecessary interference.

Master the Mental Game

By developing and rehearsing performance statements, athletes can take control of their inner dialogue and direct their focus toward what truly matters. Whether it’s Ichiro Suzuki stepping to the plate with a compact swing in mind or a young player saying, “Set my feet, see the ball, let it rip,” these focus cues are the foundation of mental strength and consistency.

This is how you build a strong mental operating system. When the lights are bright and the stakes are high, your inner playbook will be ready to guide you to success.