Emotional vs. Rational

Players make choices, often without realizing they’re doing so.  To allow a poor approach to be repeated over and over again – one which greatly inhibits effective performance – is to make a choice, whether it is a conscious one or an unconscious one.

For example, a hitter who is confused and frustrated beings the response to her at-bats.  She chooses to dwell on the problem, rather than the solution.  Self-pity or anger leads to a loss of confidence.  Loss of confidence further distracts her.  Her distraction gets in the way of her ability to see the ball well.

The player’s choice has been to operate out of her emotional system instead of her rational system.  It’s understandable, but unacceptable, nevertheless.

– H.A. Dorfman