"Smarter than the average bear" was Yogi bear's motto and it describes my purpose - I coach players to become smarter than the average hockey player.   To do so, I teach the 5 cornerstones of the mental game of hockey:

1. Be systematic: Discipline your mind to develop faster and better

2. Be purposeful: Invest maximum focus and energy in every actions to achieve your dream

3. Be mentally tough: Consistently perform to your potential under pressure

4. Manage your emotions: Use your emotions as a strategic weapon

5. Own and deliver the team's plan: Become a responsible and accountable "go-to" player

IIn this monthly column I will share ideas and techniques on how you can improve on these key component of the mental game of hockey.

Today - Begin "Systemizing" your mental game.

One key mental aptitude of great players is their ability to reflect and learn more from their actions and experiences.  Great players such has Sydney Crosby seem to do so intuitively.   To teach players to think at such a level, I have developed The InnerWarriror Cycle- an easy to apply system that encourages players to follow 4 steps (visit http://www.innerwarrior.com/creativity_IW_cycle.html for a complete description).

One of these steps is the completion of "A Courageous and Truthful Assessment". Summer is the perfect time to reflect on last season's performance and experience to plan your future.  To do so, I suggest you answer the following questions:

1. What were my objectives at the beginning of last season?

2. Where my objectives focused on results (number of points, victories etc.) or did I also set skill-oriented objectives (for example, improve my wrist shot, skating with my head high, achieve a more powerful stride, etc.)?

3. Did I achieve my objectives? Why and why not?

4. What were my greatest tactical, technical, physical and mental strengths and weaknesses during the season?

5. Did I get closer to my dream or long-term objective?

6. What do I need to improve on (or prioritize) in my tactical, technical, physical and mental game next season to get closer to achieving my dream?

7. Who are the people who can help me answer plan my next season?

The two key concepts are truthfulness and courage - see yourself as the hockey player you are and have the courage to imagine the hockey player you WILL become.  Next month, we will look at the advantages of being purposeful.  Enjoy the summer and remember that your body and your mind will only improve if you rejuvenate!