Game-Day Rituals: Superstition or Psychological Advantage?

Hey athletes, coaches, and high-performers—

Ever notice how some players always tie their left shoe first, wear the same socks, or listen to a specific playlist before every game? Are these quirky traditions just superstition… or could they be the secret sauce for peak performance?

I used to wear the same clothes on game days…order the same pre-game meal…and the same energy drink daily…

“I’m not superstitious, but I am a little 'stitious.”

-Michael Scott

Let’s break it down.

Why Rituals Matter

Rituals = Consistency + Confidence

• Routine breeds readiness. When you repeat a process, your brain knows it’s “go time.”

• Reduces anxiety. Rituals give you a sense of control in unpredictable environments.

• Boosts focus. A set routine narrows your attention to what matters—your performance.

Science says: Rituals (even “weird” ones) can lower stress and prime your mind for action. It’s not about luck—it’s about mindset.

Superstition vs. Psychological Edge

Superstition:

• Driven by fear or the belief that you’ll fail without it

• Can create anxiety if disrupted

Psychological Ritual:

• Driven by intention—preparing your body and mind

• Flexible, empowering, and performance-focused

Pro Tip: If your ritual helps you feel calm, confident, and locked in, it’s a psychological advantage. If it creates panic when you miss a step, it’s probably superstition.

My Go-To: The M.A.S.T.E.R. Ritual

Here’s how I coach athletes to build powerful game-day routines using my M.A.S.T.E.R. framework:

• Mindset: Set a clear intention (“Today, I compete with grit.”)

• Awareness: Quick body scan—where’s your energy?

• Self-Talk: One positive phrase (“I’m ready for this.”)

• Tenacity: Visualize overcoming adversity—see yourself bounce back.

• Execution: Simple, repeatable warm-up (same playlist, same movements).

• Reflection: After the game, jot down what worked—refine for next time.

Rituals from the Pros

• Serena Williams: Bounces the ball (specifically) five times before her first serve.

• Kelsey Plum: Smiles at the hoop before her free throws…diabolical.

• LeBron James: Chalk toss—signals “game on” for his brain and his team.

• Baseball players: From rally caps to bat taps, these aren’t random—they’re focus cues.

Your Challenge: Build Your Own Ritual

1. Pick 2–3 actions you can repeat every game (music, movement, mantra).

2. Set your intention—why does this ritual matter to you?

3. Test and tweak—if it helps you lock in, keep it. If not, adjust.

💬 Let’s See Yours!

What’s YOUR game-day ritual?
Reply to this email or DM me on Instagram @flanaganperformance with your routine. I’ll share the best ones (with your permission) in my next newsletter!

Stay M.A.S.T.E.R.-ful!

P.S. Want to level up your mental game? Book a 1:1 session or team workshop—reply “Let’s Go” and I’ll send you details.

Till next time,

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