Which strategy can improve athletes' resilience during competition?

Encouraging athletes to learn from setbacks is a fundamental strategy to enhance resilience during competition. This approach fosters a growth mindset, which helps athletes understand that errors and failures are part of the learning process. By viewing setbacks as opportunities for growth rather than failure, athletes are more likely to remain motivated and committed to their training and performance. This mindset shifts their focus from solely achieving immediate results to developing skills and strategies for long-term success.

Resilience is crucial in competitive settings, as it allows athletes to bounce back from disappointments, manage stress, and maintain a positive attitude. When athletes learn to extract valuable lessons from their experiences, they build confidence and increase their ability to face challenges. This strategy prepares them not just for the present competition but also for future endeavors, contributing significantly to their overall development as competitors.

In contrast, discouraging risk-taking, focusing exclusively on winning, or providing minimal feedback can hinder an athlete's growth and resilience. These approaches limit their learning opportunities, create a fear of failure, and do not support the development of coping strategies necessary for managing the highs and lows of competitive sports.