As baseball star Yogi Berra was once quoted as saying, “Baseball is 90 percent mental. The other half is physical.”
While it’s typically humorous among the legendary New York Yankees player’s famous quotes, the same could be said for pool. Mechanics, fundamentals, shot making, etc., are critically important. But I’ve known many fundamentally sound players who failed to live up to expectations because of their mental makeup.
The most common mental issue pool players have to overcome is a lack of confidence and commitment. This is especially true of newer players who start to compete against players with higher skill levels. Being nervous and intimidated is normal, of course, but how you progress mentally from that point is a key ingredient in your future success at the table.
One thing that helps is to continually remind yourself of who you are and what your capabilities are. And in that respect, don’t let another player dictate how you play the game. Play your own game. Make it you against the table. Stick to however your game is structured. If you are a methodical player, don’t get convinced (or shamed) into speeding up your game. If you are a fast player, don’t slow down for your opponent. Stick to your tempo. Also, stick with the shots you are comfortable with. No one knows your strengths and weaknesses better than you. Don’t take on shots you know you shouldn’t. Stick to what’s best for you.
Also, never forget that regardless of whether you play well or poorly, you might lose. That’s just a fact. Still, playing stronger players will always benefit your game, both physically and mentally. You will understand your strengths and weaknesses better. You will learn how to process the game better by competing with better players. And you will learn quickly because mistakes always immediately get punished by a better opponent.
As for your opponent, there is a difference between being intimidated and being respectful. You should always respect your opponent. At the same time, always respect yourself. If you don’t have respect for yourself or your ability, you’ve already lost. Believe in yourself and your ability. If you play to that level, you win even if the score doesn’t reflect that.
The same things that hold true relative to your opponent hold true relative to the shots and challenges you face at the table. Don’t allow yourself to get nervous and intimidated by uncomfortable shots. Don’t fall into the habit of tensing up and squeezing sawdust out of your cue. Stay confident in your abilities.
The keys to overcoming both are confidence and focus. Are you willing to stay focused, believe in your abilities and meet the challenges ahead? If so, you’re well on your way to taking care of business.