Table of Contents
by James J. Barrell, Ph.D. and David Ryback, Ph.D.

INTRODUCTION

The introduction clarifies what is meant by the term super-athlete. It points out that the major differences between ordinary athletes and super-athletes lie in the realm of the inside game, not in physical differences. The inside game is then explained. The authors go on to describe the research approach used to discover the Focus Edge mindset and how it is different from other approaches used in conventional sports psychology books. The introduction also sets the stage for the three main components of the Focus Edge mindset: motivation, concentration and confidence. Finally, the introduction alerts readers to the idea that information in the book can be of use to them in everyday living.

SECTION ONE:   MOTIVATION – WHAT LIGHTS YOUR FIRE?

Section one goes straight to the heart of the Focus Edge super-athlete. Why do they play the game? What are they hoping to get from their participation in athletics? We present the results of our research, along with numerous examples from the super-athletes themselves. The reader will be able to see how super-athletes look at their own motivation. Optimal and less-than-optimal motivational strategies are discussed. We describe the role that both desire and fear play in the super-athletes' approach to playing their sports. The section summary gives the reader a clear guide on how to use the same motivational strategies as the super-athletes.

SECTION TWO:   CONFIDENCE – DO YOU REALLY BELIEVE?

Section two shows how super-athletes develop the confidence necessary for athletic success. Numerous quotes are given that show the special way they look at their sports and how this enables them to develop confidence. Pre-game, game and post-game examples are given so the reader gets a clear picture of what the athletes actually think and say to themselves at these crucial times. The importance of setting goals that are seen as controllable or doable is stressed. We also point out the difference between wanting to win and going for the win when setting these goals. The role of past history in the development of confidence is explored.

SECTION THREE:   CONCENTRATION – ARE YOU IN THE MOMENT?

Section three focuses on how super-athletes go about developing and maintaining their concentration. How is it they are able to block out the distractions that negatively impact so many other athletes? What do they concentrate on? How do they maintain their focus under adverse conditions? We discuss the role of preparation in helping an athlete to concentrate. We also examine how athletes keep the desire for results in the background while they concentrate on the moment-to-moment flow of the game. Finally, the mysterious zone is explored.

SECTION FOUR:   PRESSURE SITUATIONS – WHERE IT ALL COMES TOGETHER

This is, perhaps, the single most important section in the book. By definition the super-athlete is one who has successfully handled pressure situations over a prolonged period of time. It is this ability to be successful, at the most stressful and important moments, that makes an athlete super. How do they do it? How do they look at situations that almost everyone would see as pressure-filled? Do they get nervous? If so, how do they deal with their nervousness? The answers to all of these questions are given in the conclusion. The principles that are given in this section are also very relevant to non-athletes and the types of pressure situations they face in day-to-day living.

CONCLUSION:   THE FOCUS EDGE MINDSET

The conclusion summarizes the material from the previous sections and gives a clear, succinct picture of the Focus Edge mindset. The ways that super-athletes deal with the three main components (motivation, confidence and concentration) are all tied together into a set of simple, easily followed principles.