Many people believe that attending college is a necessity, but the notion of going to school and playing college sports like r redsoccer is not always attractive. It can be difficult to balance academics and athletics at the same time, and it can sometimes be difficult transitioning from one activity to the other. So how do you succeed as both a student athlete? Here are eight mistakes that you should avoid when trying to balance both roles.
1- Moving too quickly into your new role:
Because you are now becoming a student athlete, it is important to take your time and transition into this new role properly. This means that you need to make sure that your academic schedule is set up properly and that all of the classes you need to take are taken care of before the season begins. Once you have made the decision to play college sports, it is important to take your time and see what works best for you. You will not be able to do everything at once. Instead, you should take it one step at a time. You’re already in college; this should feel natural for you.
2- Not thinking long term:
There are many volatile situations that can develop while you’re in college. Are you thinking beyond this season and your current situation? If you want to excel in your sport, then take all your free time after classes or study sessions to work on developing skills in that area rather than spending it on academics for example.
3- Thinking that you must be perfect:
Faculty and coaches will understand if you miss a class or turn in a written assignment late. They are not going to penalize you if it is not your fault. Avoid making yourself crazy about being perfect. Perfection is not attainable; it’s often over-rated. Focus on becoming a great team player rather than on being the best in every little minute detail.
4- Trying too hard:
Even if you feel that you have a good game, don’t worry so much about the outcome. Relax and enjoy the process. If you’re trying to meet a certain sports quota during a cardinal rule, then you’re doing something wrong. Go to practice, prepare for games and get better instead of worrying about having enough points for your team. Focus on the process, not just the end results from your life.
5- Not focusing on the future:
If you’re trying to get your degree as fast as possible, then you’re not focusing on your future career. If you’re trying to become an instant sports champion, then you’re not focused on the long term. If you want to play professional sports, then you should now start thinking about your future. Think about how you will use what you’re learning in college to reach your goals. Do this before you finish school, not after.
6- Not understanding that it will be hard:
College is a time for young adults to experiment and develop an understanding of who they are. If you are not able to experiment, then you will be behind the curve in your adult life. Many think that they can go to school and play at a high level while never missing a class or practice. The truth is that it’s very difficult to do this without sacrificing something.
7- Not making friends:
People that play sports at the college level don’t have many friends outside of their teams. Don’t be afraid to get out of your comfort zone and make new friends. It’s the best way to learn the skills that you need to be successful in life from people who are willing to help you. When you’re thinking about trying out for sports, make friends with people who like the same ones that you do and ask them for advice about their experiences. Though there is a strong chance that they will not want to give it because they want you to be successful and excel along with them as well.
8- Not concentrating on health:
Being physically fit is important to make sure that you can train at a high level, excel in your sport and even live well. Don’t skip the workout sessions and eat healthy whenever you have the chance. It’s very easy when things become rosy to forget all of your responsibilities, but it’s important that you focus on yourself by staying healthy. Know and understand your limits, work each week on developing new skills, and stay in good physical condition.
Conclusion:
By avoiding these mistakes, you can begin to excel at both school and sports. While it may not be easy, it is possible to balance the two in life and still excel at them. As a college student who wants to play sports, you can find success by avoiding these mistakes. Identifying and avoiding them will help you stay on the right path and set both your professional and personal life for future success.
