Drama on Court · Lesson 10
You know what’s coming. So decide your response in the parking lot, BEFORE the first point. 🎾
The tool
Tap the pattern you’re expecting and your script fills in. Change anything that isn’t you, one step at a time. Then screenshot the card.
The match, and the pattern I’m expecting
Example script
If the predictable thing happens
I can be prepared without being on guard.
Screenshot it. Read it in the car. Then let today’s match be today’s match.
The steps
Do this before a match where you know what’s coming. Start with the match, and the pattern you’re expecting.
On the first point, not game eight.
Calm. Confidence. Humor. Competitiveness. Steadiness.
Then, before you walk on
Take thirty seconds before the match. Yes, we’re getting a little woo-woo. Picture a bubble, a white light, a boundary, whatever feels natural.
It won’t stop her from being her. It’s a reminder that you don’t have to absorb everything happening around you. You can hear it, respond when necessary, and not take it into your body.
You’re not scripting the drama. You’re scripting your response.
Preparing
“I know what’s happened before, and I’m giving today the chance to be different.”
Pre-living the fight
“She’s going to cheat. She’s going to start something.”
Scripts
“If she questions a call, then I’ll say this.” Decide it now and your brain doesn’t have to scan for danger. The response is already decided.
If she questions the first call
“Are we really starting this already?”
Kindly, clearly.
If my partner gets fired up
I get quieter and keep us moving forward.
If it gets heated
“Let’s get an official and keep playing.”
If I feel myself bracing
Exhale. Protect my space. Next ball.
Your reset
Say it to yourself
I can be prepared without being on guard.
Prepare. Don’t pre-judge. Then let today’s match be today’s match.
Take it home
Answer it in the car, or text it to yourself.
After the match: what did I handle well?
Remember this