How To Build Your Character

Watch the video. Use the info below to refresh your memory.

Here are clear, actionable steps that will help you build your character and become not only a better player, but a more well-rounded person.

STEP 1 – DO EXTRA WORK

Do the extra work and you’ll develop resilience, which is one of the most important traits for any soccer player. Opportunity to do an extra sprint? Do it. Chance to push yourself a bit harder when you’re tired? Do it. By doing extra work and putting yourself in difficult situations, you’ll naturally develop resilience over time. If you feel stressed before or during training or a game, this is normal and its helping you to develop resilience. Don’t let it get the better of you; face it, accept it and push through the stress by giving your best. Afterwards, your resilience will have improved, even if only a tiny bit. Over time, this all adds up.

STEP 2 – DO SMALL THINGS

Do the small things that make a difference. Making your bed in the morning for example. Yeah but how does this relate to soccer you might ask? Well, it’s an easy task that only takes a few minutes but it sets you up for the day in an organized way and shows that you mean business, you’re ready to go. You need this attitude in soccer; being ready and having discipline. And let’s not forget, your parents or partner will appreciate you making the bed, so it’s win-win.

STEP 3 – SHOW RESPECT

Show respect to everyone; that includes teammates, coaches, opponents, referees and parents or fans on both sides. You can be the most competitive player on the field while also respecting your opponents and others around the game. You can tackle hard, fight for the ball and compete like your life depends on it, but you should always be respectful and shake hands at the end of any game. Watch the top pro’s and how they do this; the best players and the best characters show mutual respect for each other, even though they are competing for the biggest prizes.

STEP 4 – BE COMPASSIONATE

Be compassionate and caring. Yes, you can be a monster on the field while still being compassionate and caring to those around you, including teammates and opponents. If a teammate messes up or gets their head down, be the first to let them know it’s ok and you’ve got their back. If an opponent scores a great goal, give them a little tap on the shoulder or a quick “great goal mate” as they run past. There’s nothing better than a strong 50/50 tackle with an opponent and then you give each other a quick fist bump or nod of approval as you get up or help them up if they end up on the ground and you don’t.

STEP 5 – WORK ON COMMUNICATION

Work on your communication as it’s a massive part of your character. Speak up for yourself when necessary; don’t shy away from difficult conversations. If you’re not happy with something in training or a game, say it. You should be direct and honest with teammates and coaches; they may not always appreciate what you are saying but they will respect you for being honest and direct. Become known as someone who speaks up for themselves and their teammates. Effective communication is an ongoing part of learning and you’ll get better at it the more you do it.

Consider these five steps and re-watch the video if necessary to take everything in and understand it. Implement the advice and you’ll not only see a difference in how others respond to you but you’ll actually feel the difference as an individual. If you are honest, transparent and stand up for what you believe is right, it feels good and you’ll notice that.

Go and build your character!