Developing Self-Confidence through Goal Setting Realistic yet challenging goals for each athlete are important to the motivation of the athlete both at training and during competition. Accomplishing goals at practice through repetition in settings similar to the competition environment will instill confidence. Sport confidence in athletes helps make participation fun and is critical to the athlete's motivation. Setting goals is a joint effort between athletes and coaches. The main features of goal setting are:
Goals need to be structured as short-term, intermediate and long-term.
Goals need to be viewed as stepping stones to success.
Goals must be accepted by the athlete.
Goals need to vary in difficulty — from easily attainable to challenging.
Goals must be measurable.
Goals need to be used to establish the athlete's training and competition plan.
Athletes with or without a mental disability may be more motivated by accomplishing short-term goals than long-term goals; however, do not be afraid to challenge athletes. Include athletes in setting their personal goals. For example, ask the athlete, "How far do you want to jump today? Let's see how far you jumped at the last practice. What is your personal best? What do you think you can do?" Awareness of why the athlete is participating is also important when setting goals. There are participation factors, which may influence motivation and goal setting:
