From Nerves to Next Play: Helping Athletes Harness High-Pressure Emotions

This week, we’re continuing our deep dive into the emotions that show up before big moments—especially nerves—and how to handle them in a way that fuels performance rather than hinders it.

In Part 1, we explored why it’s so important not to dismiss or minimize these feelings. In this episode, we’re picking up where we left off—sharing real, tangible ways athletes can work through nerves, and how the people around them (coaches, parents, teammates) can provide the right kind of support.

We’ll break down:

• Why trying to “get rid” of nerves doesn’t work—and what to do instead
• How to reframe anxious energy as readiness or excitement
• What athletes need to hear (and not hear) from their circle before big games

Whether you're the one competing or you're supporting someone who is, this episode is packed with tools to help make pressure feel less like a threat—and more like an opportunity.

Because nerves don’t mean something is wrong… they mean you care.