How To Avoid Becoming An Out of Control Crazy Sports Parent
How To Avoid Becoming An Out of Control Crazy Sports Parent. As a sports parent, navigating the world of youth sports can be challenging, emotionally charged, and, at times, downright infuriating. However, by adopting the right mindset and strategies, you can become an unstoppable force, supporting your child’s athletic journey while maintaining your own well-being. Here are ten steps to help you achieve this:
1. Connect with the Real Reasons Your Child Should Play Sports
Stop getting so worked up about the ROI, the college scholarship, the accolades, and the wins. Instead, focus on the real reason you signed your kid up in the first place. It’s all about the grit and character they are building, as well as the mental and physical health benefits, the friendships they make, and the life lessons they are learning. Not to mention, sports keep them busy, off phones, and out of trouble.
2. Set Boundaries on Time, Money, and Energy Your Family Spends On Sports
Don’t overextend yourself. This causes you to overreact to everything happening on the field or court. Do youth sports within your values and means. Set clear boundaries around what matters most to your family and stick to them. This will allow you to enjoy youth sports and not feel anxious about paying for the camp you can’t afford or missing the family vacation that you planned.
3. Stay Out of the Weeds
Avoid getting entangled in gossip, drama, or the minute details of your child’s team, the other parents and athletes, or opposing teams. Once you get sucked in, it’s hard to get out, and it will rob you of your ability to be a good sports parent. Focus on the big picture and what really matters—your child’s growth and enjoyment of the sport. Youth sports drama and politics can make the most balanced sports parent crazy.
4. Have Your Own Life
It’s essential to maintain your own interests and relationships outside of your child’s sports activities. Don’t be afraid to miss practices or games occasionally to pursue your own passions. Having a well-rounded life will make you a more balanced and supportive parent.
5. Embrace the Journey and the Process
Shift your focus from the outcomes of your child’s athletic journey to the journey itself. Celebrate the small victories, the lessons learned, and the personal growth that occurs along the way. By embracing the process, you’ll be better able to support your child through both successes and setbacks by being detached in a positive way and not too caught up in it all.
6. Keep Realistic Goals and Expectations
Be honest with yourself about your child’s abilities and future in their chosen sport. Setting realistic goals and expectations will help you avoid disappointment and maintain a healthy perspective on your child’s athletic development.
7. See Failure as Valuable
Remember that every setback, upset. and loss your child faces, you should see it as growth, not failure. Embrace these ‘failures’ as an essential part of your child’s journey and the reason why they should play sports. Encourage your child to view them the same way. Opportunities to learn, improve, and build resilience. By modeling this attitude, you’ll help your child develop a growth mindset that will serve them well both on and off the field.
8. Communicate Directly with the Coach
Establish open and respectful communication with your child’s coach. If concerns or issues arise, address them directly and professionally, avoiding gossip or complaining to others. By maintaining a positive relationship with the coach, you’ll encounter fewer issues and less drama.
9. Get a Mindfulness Practice
Incorporate the “Come To Your Senses” technique into your daily routine. This practice involves focusing on your five senses to ground yourself in the present moment, reducing stress and anxiety. By cultivating mindfulness, you’ll be better equipped to handle the ups and downs on the field or court.
10. Love Watching Them Play
Above all else, simply enjoy watching your child play their sport. Let go of the pressure to control outcomes or push for achievements. Instead, focus on the joy and love you feel as you watch your child’s efforts. Your unconditional support and presence will be the most valuable gift you can give them.