There is a lot of quality information on soccer out there but you will rarely read what steps you can take in order to learn how to take critiques as a soccer player.
Staying calm is the name of the game, and it also helps to have some sort of perspective in the matter.
Remember that you’re in good company, as professional soccer players actually have to deal with the same problem.
Even though they are good, they are still getting critiques. Don’t think that you’re alone!
However, in this article I will present some tips that will tell you exactly what you need to do in order to learn how to take critique and still keep yourself calm. Let’s start directly…
Count from 1 to 10
This method has been used since the beginning of soccer and is still very efficient.
Simply, when a teammate or coach tells you to start focusing on your soccer skills and play better, just count from 1 to 10 and you will directly notice how your temperament is cooling down.
This one is one of my favorites and I use it often whether I am practicing or playing a regular game.
Encourage Your Teammates
This one may sound strange, but when you start to encourage your teammates after receiving critique from them you will feel little better.
I don’t know why but I have tried out this one several times and it helps me focus better immediately.
Don’t Argue
The worst thing you can do when a teammate or coach criticize you is to start arguing with them. Just accept what they’ve said and put your focus on the game.
If you start to argue with them your left brain half will not function properly because it will need to take care of your anger.
This means simply that your performance will decrease by 30 % and will probably mean a warm and soft place on the bench.
If you argue too much, you become known as someone that isn’t a team player – which is the last thing that you’re looking for!
Summary
Sometimes it will be impossible to keep your mouth closed. In such situations it is easy to get angry at any sound from the coach or teammate!
Therefore always keep your mouth closed no matter what. I can assure you that you will not win anything by arguing.
Instead, your performance will decrease and the coach may even put you on the bench in the next game.
I must admit that even today I am still learning how to accept critiques from my teammates and my coach even if I have played soccer for many years it still feels pretty difficult.
However, I want you to remember following because it is really crucial: Always concentrate on your own game and don’t care whether someone gives you critiques or not.
Only on this way you will be able to concentrate maximum and fulfill your tasks on the soccer field!
Stay around and browse our other sections on soccer ball control, shooting, passing, kicking etc!
