« To get back to your level, you have to enjoy yourself ». That's the phrase you hear all the time. But is it really enjoyment that elevates the performance… or the other way around?
This is a question that naturally comes up in sport performance coaching. That injunction is repeated so often to athletes that they end up feeling guilty for not enjoying themselves enough on the field, in competition…
First, can and should we put ourselves in the athlete's shoes? No. Every person is unique, and each athlete has their own idea of what performance and enjoyment mean to them.
One person's path to success won't necessarily suit another.
The right questions to ask
For me, the first two questions to ask an athlete (young or older) would be:
- Do you know how you enjoy your sport?
- Do you think you perform better when you're enjoying yourself?
Enjoyment or Pride: the Djokovic example
Does Djokovic enjoy playing? When he reaches his goals, probably more so. But is that enjoyment or pride? Aren't we conflating everything under this catch-all idea of “enjoyment”?
In any case, if it's supposed to be a magic phrase that helps an athlete improve and regain their level, I don't think it's that effective.
Does the demand of elite sport allow you to enjoy it?
My answer is yes, obviously. But only if you know what kind of enjoyment you're after, remember it's personal, and accept that enjoyment can come after hard work, stress, moments of doubt… effort, sacrifice, and sharing with teammates — with cohesion too.
How do you define your own sense of enjoyment?
- When I win a duel?
- When I feel good physically?
- When I beat my personal best times?
- When I'm selected to play for my team?
- When I help my team win?
- When I manage to execute the tactics we've planned?
- When I pull off the techniques and sequences I've learned?
Enjoyment in performance, in sport, is ephemeral. It often appears more as a consequence of performance than as a prerequisite.
Of course, when an athlete describes the « zone », also called the « flow » — their optimal performance state — they can feel well-being, calm, competence, power… you could say enjoyment becomes a source of strength. But is that enjoyment, or is it a state of confidence?
Is it possible to play a 90-minute, high-intensity football match with a smile on your face?
Conclusion: finding the right balance
Obviously, in my approach to supporting athletes I'm 100% in favor of them flourishing, having a blast, and genuinely enjoying themselves. And clearly the pursuit of performance goes through those flow states. But whether at the highest level or on the playground in a marble game, there's a winner and a loser… and less often a participant who simply had fun.
My take on the question? Yes — fortunately it's possible to enjoy yourself in competition. But to say that enjoyment is a surefire way to succeed, I'm less convinced.
The debate is open. Your comments are welcome!