Introduction

Successful performance in sport is influenced by both physical abilities and mental preparation. While athletes often focus on fitness and technique, physical preparation alone does not guarantee optimal performance. Many elite athletes have struggled to perform at their best due to a lack of mental readiness, despite possessing the necessary physical skills. Similarly, individuals facing health challenges may struggle to make positive changes without the mental strength and self-regulation to overcome negative behaviours. Psychology, the study of the mind and its impact on behaviour, helps us understand the motivations behind our actions, including those related to movement and performance. By applying psychological strategies, we can optimise performance, enhance participation, and modify behaviours. This chapter explores the relationship between psychology, movement, and the mind’s influence on performance and participation. 

Motivation: Positive and Negative

Positive: Motivation to participate in an activity because of a potential desirable outcome. Examples include praise, financial gain, media coverage and self-satisfaction. 

Negative: The desire to avoid the penalties of an unsuccessful outcome. Examples include, loss of money, fear of failure, missing selection, disappointment. 

These forms of motivation can affect participation at all levels. Generally, positive motivation is a more desired form of motivation, but there are times when negative motivation is a necessary and powerful tool in encouraging participation. 

Outcomes

Intrinsic and positive motivation is more effective at consistently driving individual engagement in sports. When motivation relies on extrinsic rewards or avoidance, it can lead to anxiety, lower interest, effort, and difficulty handling failure. For instance, a child playing sports to please a parent may feel anxious and less invested. On the other hand, intrinsic motivation, even with extrinsic rewards, typically results in better outcomes, including a stronger drive to improve, more positive reactions to setbacks, and greater enjoyment. An individual who joins a dance club out of love for dancing is more likely to practice and stay motivated despite challenges.

Discuss: Which forms of motivation do you think are most beneficial to participation and performance? 

SMART Goal Setting as a Behaviour Change Tool

SMART goal setting is a powerful psychological performance tool that can significantly enhance motivation and support behavior change. One key aspect of self-regulation, goal setting provides individuals with clear objectives, which in turn boost self-efficacy—the belief in one’s ability to achieve goals. By setting Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound goals, individuals can break down larger tasks into manageable steps, increasing their sense of accomplishment as they make progress. This structured approach helps maintain focus, encourage persistence, and provides a basis for self-evaluation. SMART goals not only motivate individuals to put in the effort required to reach their targets, but also foster long-term commitment by helping them track progress and adjust strategies as needed. Ultimately, goal setting is an effective tool for enhancing psychological readiness and performance, helping individuals stay on course and achieve success over time.