How to Motivate Teenagers in Sports

Motivating a teenager is an enormous task, but motivating them in sports can sometimes nearly impossible. As adults we often desire success on the sporting field than the teenager. Adults certainly live and die by the outcome, much more than a teenager. However, it is important to teach a teenager that playing sports is a dedication and hard work is a part of it.

Instructions

    • 1

      Talk to the teenager and make an educated judgement that they are in fact motivated to play sports. Often they will say they want to play, but it is very important to decipher between wanting and feeling like they need to. If it is the latter, motivating them will be almost impossible.

    • 2

      Develop a plan with the teenager on how they can become a better athlete. This often means explaining and demonstrating to the teenager that off season work is critical.

    • 3

      Remain positive at all times. Going negative will only beat the teenager down. This doesn't mean that all yelling is off limits, but constantly bashing the teenager will not work. Always, always point out the success.

    • 4

      Work with someone who knows how to train an athlete. Often a third party can achieve more success at motivation than a parent. It might even be worth spending some money.

    • 5

      Go out and run/lift/jump with the teenager. Show them that you care so much you are willing to do the physical activity along with them. This can really build a strong relationship with the teenager.

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