Let’s Talk Mental Preparation & Business of Sport
Jamal T. Jackson, LCSW
8/10/23
This is a reminder to all athletes, especially to marginalized athletes with a dream of becoming a professional athlete.
Being a Professional athlete may be your DREAM, however there is a business component within being a professional athlete that often outweighs your DREAM. That business component may very well be rooted in bias and attempt to minimize your value, such as in the case of NFL running back Jonathan Taylor of the Indianapolis Colts. This is something that happens not only on a professional level, but also college, high school and within youth sports. THIS can impact YOUR Mental Health, especially if you don’t understand the Business/Politics side of sport. It’s not always about how good you are or your ability to produce athletically. With that being said it is important to be a well-rounded PERSON by…
- Exploring/Engaging in all of your interests not just sports
- Lean into understanding the business side of your sport
- Engage in Self Care by…
a. Journaling
b. Talking with a trusted adult/friend
c. Working with a therapist to build on your strengths & improve on areas of growth
d. Exercise/Playing different recreational sports for fun
e. Learning to cook/Eating healthy
f. Watching a movie
Or whatever else OUTSIDE of sports that you enjoy doing.