Stress Appraisal
One Big Idea
You’re more than halfway through the season, and it’s been a ride.
You’ve had flashes of greatness—some wins, some tough losses, and moments where everything clicked.
But now, it feels like the wheels are wobbling.
Missed chances.
And that nagging question: am I doing enough?
The pressure to deliver “the big play” every time is real.
So, is the worry about how this all impacts the future—your next contract, your reputation, your legacy.
Or are your concerns focused on what you can control today?
Psychologists suggest we have two paths when dealing with pressure: we can view challenges as Threats or as Challenges.
And the choice between these two mindsets often determines whether we spiral or step up.
The Threat Mindset
This mindset sees struggles as signs of decline.
You tell yourself: What if I’m slipping? What if I’m not the guy they can count on?
This thinking is rooted in fear, scarcity, and loss-prevention.
And here’s the kicker—when we focus on avoiding failure, we often shrink from the moment and play smaller than we’re capable of.
The Challenge Mindset
This mindset frames setbacks differently.
It’s about asking: What’s the lesson here? What’s one thing I can do better?
It doesn’t mean the losses or struggles don’t sting—they do—but they become fuel for improvement.
This story is about courage, resourcefulness, and forward momentum.
The Good News
We always get to choose which story we tell.
Stress appraisal is the way we decide what a moment means.
It’s not what happens to us; it’s the meaning we attach to it.
Two Quotes to Consider
“Pain is necessary. Suffering is usually optional.” —Richard Rohr
“When you understand that outside events do not touch your deepest self–what matters is your interpretation and reaction–you can use any circumstance to your benefit.” –Epictetus
Three Takeaways for Your Season
You define what defines you.
You’re the guy who’s had big moments. You’re also the guy figuring it out through challenges. The real question isn’t: Which version of me is truest? The question is: What story am I writing next? You define what defines you.Setbacks are part of the climb.
In football—and in life—there’s always another mountain. Overcoming one challenge doesn’t guarantee smooth sailing; it just means you’re stronger for the next one. Expect obstacles. They’re proof you’re growing. Expect growth, and every play becomes a chance to sharpen your edge.Keep getting better.
History is full of teams and players who flipped the script. In 2016, Miami of Ohio started 0-6 before ripping off six wins and going to a bowl game. In 2003, Kansas State lost three straight before winning out and taking the Big 12 Championship. And countless pros have rebounded from slumps to dominate. The common thread? They never let the tough moments define them. They stayed committed to getting better.
Your Playbook Moving Forward
When the pressure feels heavy, focus on what you can control: your effort, your mindset, and your response. Focus on your inputs. Whether it’s the next game, the next snap, or the next contract: you’re writing the story of who you are, not your circumstances. Play it one chapter at a time—see challenges for what they are–and keep building toward greatness.