How to Develop the "Don't Quit Mindset"

Ozzie Smith learned how to develop the "DON'T QUIT MINDSET" by thinking positive.

Staying motivating, up-beat and positive during a batting slump or during a losing streak can be tough and hard pill to swallow.

Words of encouragement can "pick you up" in the times of struggle, bringing new motivation to your playing skills.

Click on the link below for a stimulating video with a high-energy soundtrack that will inspire you to reach your baseball goals.

http://www.natureofsuccessmovie.com/

Ozzie always remained positive during the tough times by counting his blessings. Remember you are very fortunate to play the game of baseball and every body and I do mean everybody gets in hitting slump every once in a while.

Remember to keep your head up and keep working hard!

Mental Toughness

Ozzie Smith always played baseball with a Positive Mental Attitude (PMA)!

How is your PMA?

Here are 4 tips to improve your mental toughness.

1) Always Believe in Yourself. If you think you can`t do it, you are right! . When you are at the plate, concentrate on hitting the ball hard and believe that you will get the job done.

2) Have Confidence. The main reason that players don´t play well in games is nervousness, and the main cause of nervousness is lack of self confidence. You have to believe that you can hit any pitch that the pitcher throws and not get intimidated. You must believe that no one on the mound is better than you. Have a good attitude. Believe in your skills and talents.

3) Strive to Improve Everyday. Both physically and mentally. Work on your skills, hitting to opposite field, pulling the ball and bunting. Learn from watching games and highlights on TV and watch instructional videos to learn even more. Never stop learning!

4) Always Play at Your Best. - Even when playing against teams or players who are not quite as talented, it is important to play at top level. Do not drop your level of play simply to take it easy on the opponent. Compete against your own personal best every time out, and try to achieve that.

You must posses a Positive Mental Attitude not only on the field, but off the field as well.

Remember, mental toughness is what separates a great player from an average player. In a tough, clutch situation, the player with "nerves of steel" is the MVP.

Rest and Re-energize

During Ozzie Smith's career, he not only was in tip-top shape, but he made sure he got plenty of rest to perform at a superstar level.

Not getting enough sleep can dramatically affect your performance on the baseball diamond. While you sleep, your body is recovering and resting from all the things you have done during your day.

Sleep calms you down and improves your mood, your muscles relax, and your mind is allowed to clear itself in preparation for the next day's game.

If you are not getting enough rest, you will begin to notice it in a physical way. You may feel sluggish and get tired during pressure situations and you may not be able to come up with a clutch play when the game is on the line.

While there is no perfect number in terms of hours of sleep, 7-8 hours should be your target each and every night.

Read Ozzie Smith’s Biography

When Ozzie Smith was in high school, many people said he was too small and could not hit major league pitching.

Ozzie has become one of the most popular players in major league baseball history.

He was elected to the Hall of Fame in 2002, his first year of eligibility.

What a great story.

Reading a biography of a famous person will lift your motivation. Not to mention expand your vocabulary, it also shows you how different writers put down their thoughts leading to better writing skills for you.

The more you read, the more information you pick up. Reading will also lead to a solid core of knowledge that is useful in a wide variety of classes.

For example, by reading a biography on Jackie Robinson will give you a better understanding of baseball history.

I strongly suggest that you read Ozzie Smith’s biography. Here is a player that beat the odds to become the greatest shortstop who ever played baseball.

More Info on Ozzie Smith

Plaster Motivational Quotes On Your Bedroom Wall

Ozzie Smith's motivation to play the game of baseaball with vigor came in a lot of ways.

Collecting quotations, creeds and motivational writings of the world's most influential thinkers can be a great way to become motivated when times get tough.

I believe that these writings, once gathered together, can be a tremendous help to motivate and inspire you.

The right quotation, at the right moment, could help bring your goals into perspective.

Football coach Vince Lombardi had many great quotes that are still true today. Click on the link below and take a look at a few.

Motivation Movie

Where else can you find motivational quotes?

Well, I have the great answer for you – The Bible.

The Bible is full of motivational scriptures – my favorite is:

For I can do everything with the help of Christ who gives me strength I need.

– Philippians 4:13

Setting Goals During the Off Season

Goal Setting for Baseball

There are many different stages of baseball and there are many different goals for baseball.

For example, if you are high school baseball player, your goal may be to gain a college scholarship at a top 20 Division I program. If you are a college baseball player, your goal may be a top round draft choice of a Major League Baseball team.

For this reason your strength and conditioning goal setting steps during the off season can vary but the nine tips below is a good starting point:

1. Discuss your plan to use goal setting to help you reach your baseball goals with your coach.
2. Find a mentor that has done what you want to achieve and learn from them.
3. Write your goals down. A good software to use is mygoals.com
4. Determine the action you need to take to achieve your goal.
5. Understand how your skills will improve as you strive towards your goal.
6. Visualize a stronger and faster you.
7. Constantly remind yourself of your goal.
8. Work hard and have fun.
9. Have a Positive Attitude!