218 Mental Toughness In Football: How To Deal With Criticism #BITESIZE

Demystifying Mental Toughness

In today’s short BITE sized episode HCPC Registered Sport Psychologist, Michael Caulfield tells me about the challenges and pressures that elite professional football brings whether you are a manager or player. He shares his thoughts on what mental toughness is in this environment as well as offering insights into his role as a Sport Psychologist when working with and supporting managers in the English Premier League.

Key Learning Points:

• Rejection and dealing with losses can be uncomfortable yet is something that we all face.
• Mental toughness in elite professional football comes in two forms: off the pitch – and being able to deal with the scrutiny and immense criticism that will come your way. On the pitch it is to have the courage to still want the ball when you or your team is having a difficult time.
• When working with big names being comfortable in your own skin is essential.

Connect with Michael Caulfield:

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Michael Caulfield on X

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Helpful Podcast Episodes

Ep111: Michael Caulfield – How to be an Effective Sports Psychologist in Elite Professional Football

Ep146: John Nassoori – What Is The Role Of A Sports Psychologist In Football?

Ep151: Compilation – Football Psychology: 50 Ways You Can Improve Your Performance

Ep188: Gary Curneen – Helping Soccer Coaches Reflect On Their Approach #BITESIZE

Ep209: Felix Lehmann – How To Create Better Decision Makers On The Football Pitch

Other Valuable Soccer or Football Resources

Goalkeeping Psychology | Mental Skills for Goalkeepers

Soccer Psychology | Mental Skills for Football

Youth Sports Psychology | Mental Skills Training for Kids and Parents

Frequently Asked Questions about Football or Soccer Psychology

Frequently Asked Questions about Goalkeeping Psychology