“Keep your eyes on the prize” is a popular saying in sports. It means to stay focused on achieving a positive end result, and not the obstacles in the path. This is an important reminder for athletes and teams during off-season training and throughout a long season.
At the start of the 2014 MLB Championship Series, the Cardinals, Giants, Royals, and Orioles all have their sights set on making it to the World Series. To increase their odds of winning this prize, each team must get lost in the process.
Madison Bumgarner (AP Photo)
During each game, the mantra is to “keep your eyes on the process.” That is, focus on actions, not expectations or outcomes. Stay in the present moment to play your best.
Don’t worry about losing. Don’t anticipate victory. Concentrate completely on each play and be the winner of it. Think of each pitch as the first pitch of a new game.
By keeping your eyes on the process, the desired prize will be there waiting for you.
Dr. Jim Afremow is a sports psychology expert and the author of "The Champion's Mind: How Great Athletes Think, Train, and Thrive." Follow him on Twitter @goldmedalmind.