A big problem with younger (and even older!) softball players like you and me is a lack of confidence. Whether it is being insecure about your

hitting abilities, or scared that the ball will be hit to you and you will mess up, we all have had some lack of confidence at one point or another. But, how do you stop this self-doubt?If you ever feel like you are not confident while on the field, follow these tips so you can be a more confident (and not to mention better) player.

Tip 1: Believe in yourself. When I was younger, I used to get very upset and insecure when I would pitch balls. However, through the years, I realized that even if I do have my bad days, I am not a bad pitcher, and one game does not define me. So, the first thing you should do when you are feeling a lack of confidence is take a deep breath, believe in yourself, and know that it is not the end of the world.

Tip 2: Smile and have some self-love. Smiling can make you feel a LOT better about yourself. In addition to this, some “self-love,” or talking positively to yourself, will boost your confidence and give you the extra push you need to succeed.

Tip 3: Fake it ’till you make it. This is a tip that I love using even now. Whenever I feel really scared or not confident, I pretend I am a famous softball player that is really good. This does not mean I can be cocky or say that I am the best, but if I play as confidently as the player I choose to be, I notice that I am able to be more relaxed and confident.

These three tips can also be used off the softball field and in the real world. Are you feeling insecure when applying for a job in the future?Then try one of these tips! Once you gain a good amount of confidence, you will realize how important of a skill it is for softball and life.

By Alana Kimball