what do the words "mental game" mean to you?

   So when talking about "mental game" I think of having proper mindset and being prepared for the task at hand whether its playing a game or taking a test or whatever the situation. Sometimes before a test you may think I havent studied at all for this test im going to fail or there is no way I can possibly pass this test. Well sometimes even with the prior knowledge you have obtained by just takin gnotes or listening in class could help you pass that test. Even though you didnt study too hard those factors could come into play while taking the test but, if you go into the test telling yourself you're going to do bad or going to fail then most likely your prediction will come true.
    On the field you go into the game knowing what you do in every situation whether it s on offense or defense you have to know your plays or know what moves to make on certain  calls or audibles. The same thing goes in school in order for you to excell at school you have to have a strong mental game. Having a strong mental game doesnt always mean your the smartest in your class or the most talented on the field but it means you have no doubts about the task at hand or any doubts within your own capability. If you tell yourself you can do it over and over you kind of just have the feeling that there is no way you cannot succeed in the situation. So if you study your plays and you practice and motivate yourself to do good when the time comes that you have to play a game you will be prepared and ready to go. The same exact philosphy comes into play in the classroom. If  you study hard and take practice tests and quiz yourself and read up on what you have learned and motivate yourself to do good and  tell yourself that you're going to ace this test then most likely  that is what you are going to do.
   So take into consideration after reading this blog that "mental game" does not only relate to on the field problems but also plays a major role in being successful at school in your classes and can ultimatley improve your grades and scores if you have a good mental game.

      So the question is "Does one need to be an athlete to understand the importance of a strong mental game?" Well personally I'd say absolutley not because having a strong mental game doesnt necessarily mean you are an athlete or participate in athletics. You hear it alot that you're going to win the game and overcome obstacles if you have a strong mentality and dont make mistakes and beat yourself. Well that doesnt always have to pertain to athletics.
    There are plenty of activities which require a strong mental game and preparation other than athletics. Say you are participating in a chess match for instance, you obviously need a strong mental game if you are going to outsmart and out strategize your opponent. You need to figure out how your going to react when they make a certain move or how your going to put them in a situation they cannot get out of. That requires some serious thinking and strategizing which ultimatley has to do with having a very strong mental game. Without proper preparation and having the right mindset you may have lost the game even before it has even begun. Another example is playing a game of poker and in order to  win the game or win the jackpot you have to come to the table with a stronger mind than the rest of the players. In order for you to win you have to have your mind focused and set on winning and not letting anything throw you off your game or confuse you because one mistake  can cost you alot of money and maybe get you into some financial trouble.
    So in saying this I think I've proven my point that you do not need to be an athlete or participate in athletics to understand the importance of a strong mental game. There are more things than sports like job interviews, board and card games and plenty of others that require knowing the importance of a strong mental game and knowing how to prepare you're mind and stay focused that do not invole any kind of athletic participation whatsoever.