Why should a baseball player continue to work when there is no chance of winning the game, tournament, or conference championship?
I’m sharing a piece from one of my favorite sports psychologists, Dr. Patrick Cohn at Peaksports.
In the MLB, for instance, teams work hard to position themselves for a playoff run. Players focus on developing their skills, conditioning their bodies, and preparing for each game.
Unfortunately, some teams will be mathematically eliminated towards a season’s end with many games left on their schedule. So now what?
For these teams, staying motivated is challenging. They think, “Why should I continue to waste my time and effort when the season is a lost cause?”
It’s a valid concern. If you know you are eliminated from the playoffs with several weeks remaining in the season, it’s understandable to question “WHY” you should continue to work.
The Why
The word “WHY” is noteworthy. Your “WHY” is a statement of purpose that influences your actions. Ultimately, your “why” impacts your goals, motivation, and behavior.
Therefore, it is important to clarify your purpose so you can make the most of each opportunity to become a better player.
For example, if your team is not playoff-bound, clarifying your purpose can motivate you, making your training and practices meaningful.
You can bring your purpose into focus through some introspection.
Ask yourself, “What do I want to accomplish in the remaining games of the season?”
* Do you want to finish the season on a high note?
* Do you want to work on hitting mechanics?
* Do you want to work on adding a new pitch to your arsenal?
* Do you want to work on staying focused late in games?
* Do what to improve your mental skillset?
Continue Working Hard
Just as teams work hard in preseason to position themselves for a playoff run, you can utilize the remaining games to position yourself for a strong start to the next season.
Each time you step on the field for practice or games, there is an opportunity to develop your mental and technical skills to improve your game. When you set meaningful goals, you will be motivated to make the most of your practices and games.
Take, for instance, the 2024 Chicago White Sox. The White Sox lost their 100th game with over 30 games remaining in the regular season. Chicago had no chance of making the playoffs but still had an opportunity to improve as a team.
White Sox starter Jonathan Cannon discussed the importance of having a purpose when mathematically being eliminated from the post-season.
CANNON: “Obviously, no one wants to lose 100 games, especially with still a month to go. But we’re going to keep coming here every day, getting our work in and keep just going out there and trying to win some ball games.”
Goals provide purpose and sustain motivation. Having a positive, well-defined “why” helps you make sense of your efforts regardless of your circumstances.
Being Mathematically Eliminated from the Playoffs: Set some meaningful goals to make the most of the remaining games of your season.
* What do you want to achieve?
* How do you plan on working towards your goal?
* How will you fuel your efforts when your motivation dips?
* How will you hold yourself accountable for your actions until the end of the season?
