What To Do If You Think You “Lost Your Touch”

March 1, 2024
By Shannon Hobbs

If you think you lost your touch or don’t think you play as well as you used to, there are several things both on and off of the field to regain your soccer skills. Here are six things to try:

Reconnect With an Old Coach

Remember a time when you thought you were playing your best. Who was your coach? Whether by phone or on the field, reconnecting with an old coach can give you another perspective, help you identify some strengths that you may be overlooking, and boost your confidence. If anything, it’s always nice to know you have an old coach in your corner.

Reconnect With Old Teammates

People usually choose team sports like soccer because let’s face it, they’re fun. Remember a time when even if you weren’t playing your best, you were having fun! Who was on the field with you? Even if you don’t play a pick-up game, just going for frozen yogurt or a pedicure can bring back fond memories and your passion for the game.

Journal

If you’re feeling more introspective, you can always start a journal. Getting your feelings down on paper is a great way to de-stress, and if you reflect on your entries, you may be able to get back in touch with yourself and the game.

Read

If writing’s not your thing, try reading. There is no shortage of books about women’s soccer anymore, from individual players’ biographies to books chronicling the entire history of the game. Reading about your favorite soccer player and how she overcame obstacles or how the women’s game got to where it is today just might inspire you.

Rest

Sometimes the best way to improve your game is to take a break from playing. This gives your mind and body time to regroup. Sure, you can sleep in and binge on Netflix, or you can remain active while still decompressing. If you live near a beach, slather on some sunscreen and go for a swim. If you live near the mountains, lace up your boots and go for a hike. If you miss the camaraderie of your teammates, roll up your mat and find a yoga class.

Mix Up Your Training

Adding variety to your workouts isn’t just good for the body – it’s good for the mind. Just like your muscles can get used to a workout, so can your mind, and you can get stuck in a rut. We’re not talking about big changes here; even a small tweak in your existing workout can make a difference. If you normally run on a treadmill, ditch the gym, and hit the pavement the next time you do cardio.

No matter what you do, try to stay positive. One of my favorite quotes to recite when I’m not feeling like myself is by Norman Vincent Peale, “The best way to forget your own problems is to help someone else solve theirs.”

Featured Image via Unsplash @rocinante_11