how to leave success notes for your future self
Happy Day 1 everyone!
Today, we’re diving into the number one way to take your mental game to the next level by mastering this simple yet effective journaling practice. By following these three steps—"Well," "Better," and "Adjustments"—you can develop a WIN-or-LEARN mindset that will serve you well both on and off the field.
Step 1: "Well"
We ALWAYS want to start with the good so the first step in champion journaling is to focus on what you did well. Start by writing "WELL" in all caps at the top of your journal page and underline it. Underneath, list three or more things from your recent game or practice that you’re proud of or feel like you did a good job of.
These can be anything that you feel positive about, whether it’s coming through in a clutch situation, maintaining a positive attitude regardless of the outcome, giving maximum effort, executing your pregame routine, or staying focused on what you could control. The key here is to celebrate your successes, no matter how big or small they may seem. Even if you had a tough game—maybe you went 0 for 4 with four strikeouts or gave up six runs in an inning—you should ALWAYS be able to find something to acknowledge and appreciate.
If you find yourself struggling to identify anything you did well, it may be a sign that there’s a deeper issue to address. But remember, there’s always something to learn and build on. Then whatever we learn helps us win in the future, so learning becomes winning, and it truly becomes WIN or WIN.
Step 2: "Better"
Next, move on to the "BETTER" section of your journal. This is where you get honest with yourself about areas where you could have improved. Write down situations where you felt you could have performed better.
Maybe you had a key at-bat late in the game and tried to do too much instead of sticking to your usual approach. Perhaps you let the pressure of the moment get to you and forgot to utilize your breath correctly and completely forgot to follow your pre-pitch routine. Or maybe a bad call from the umpire threw you off your game, and you allowed it to affect the rest of your at-bat.
The important thing here is to recognize that perfection isn’t the goal—progress is. By identifying these moments and acknowledging where you could have done better, you’re setting yourself up for growth and learning.
Step 3: "Adjustments"
Finally, in the "ADJUSTMENTS" section, write down specific actions you’ll take next time to improve on the areas you identified in the "Better" section. This is where you create a plan to make sure you’re continually growing and learning from your experiences.
For example, if you noted that you let your body language slip after a defensive error, your adjustment might be to take a deep breath, focus on what you can control, and channel your energy to the present-moment so you can give your all to the next pitch. These adjustments serve as success notes for your future self, ensuring that when you inevitably find yourself in a similar situation, you’re better prepared to handle it.
Why Champion Journaling Works
Champion journaling isn’t just about recording your thoughts—it’s about actively engaging in a process of self-reflection and growth. By consistently practicing this journaling method, you’re training your mind to approach each competition with a WIN-or-LEARN mindset, which as mentioned above, actually turns into WIN or WIN when done correctly. You’re also creating a valuable resource for your future self, full of insights and strategies that will help you succeed.
Getting Started
Would you say today is a good day to start implementing this journaling practice? The beauty of champion journaling is that it’s quick, easy, and can be done after any game or practice. By taking just a few minutes to reflect and write down your thoughts, you’re investing in your future success.
So grab a notebook, set aside some time after your next competition, and start leaving success notes for the future version of you. With this practice, you’re not just becoming a better athlete—you’re becoming a more resilient, growth-oriented person.
Brandon’s Primary Takeaways
Champion journaling is a powerful post-competition practice that helps athletes reflect on their performance and leave success notes for their future selves. This practice involves three simple steps: "Well," "Better," and "Adjustments." By consistently implementing these steps, athletes can cultivate a mindset focused on continuous growth and learning.
Summary Bullet Points:
Champion journaling involves three steps: "Well," "Better," and "Adjustments."
Reflect on what you did well, identify areas for improvement, and plan specific adjustments for next time.
This practice helps cultivate a WIN-or-LEARN mindset and leaves valuable success notes for your future self.
Action Steps:
Start champion journaling after your next game or practice.
Use the "Well," "Better," and "Adjustments" framework to guide your reflections.
Review your success notes before future competitions to reinforce learning and growth.
By consistently applying champion journaling, you’ll be on your way to elevating your game and becoming the best version of yourself in ALL that you do.
My Book Recs!
In my mission to help athletes close the gap between their potential and their performance, I recommend these books as essential tools for anyone committed to mastering the mental game, ON and OFF the field. From enhancing focus and confidence to developing routines and anti-fragility, these reads are designed to support you in competing with all you've got on every pitch. Click here to view all of the book recommendations I have shared on my website.
Ready To Take Your Game To The Next Level? Invest In Yourself and Enroll In My New Online and Self-Paced Course:
Click here to learn more and view all the benefits of the MLM online course.
