Motivation and Goal Setting
Expert-defined terms from the Advanced Certificate in Sport Psychology for High Performance in Esports course at London School of Business and Administration. Free to read, free to share, paired with a professional course.
Abilities Assessment refers to the process of evaluating an individual's skills… #
Related terms include aptitude testing, skills evaluation, and performance analysis. In the context of esports, abilities assessment is crucial for identifying areas of strength and weakness, and for developing strategies to improve overall performance. For example, a team may use abilities assessment to determine which players are best suited for specific roles, such as marksmanship or strategy.
Achievement Motivation is a concept that refers to an individual's drive to succ… #
Related terms include competitiveness, ambition, and success orientation. In esports, achievement motivation is critical for players to stay motivated and focused, particularly during long periods of practice and competition. For instance, a player may be motivated to improve their skills and climb the ranks in order to achieve a sense of accomplishment and recognition.
Adaptability refers to the ability to adjust to changing circumstances, such as… #
Related terms include flexibility, resilience, and adjustment. In esports, adaptability is essential for teams to stay competitive and respond to unexpected challenges. For example, a team may need to adapt their strategy mid-game in response to an opponent's unexpected tactic.
Affective States refer to the emotional experiences of an individual, such as fe… #
Related terms include emotional states, mood, and affect. In esports, affective states can significantly impact a player's performance, with negative emotions potentially leading to decreased focus and motivation. For instance, a player may experience anger or frustration after a loss, which can affect their ability to perform well in subsequent matches.
Attention refers to the ability to focus on relevant information and filter out… #
Related terms include concentration, focus, and selective attention. In esports, attention is critical for players to stay focused on the game and respond quickly to changing circumstances. For example, a player may need to maintain attention on multiple aspects of the game, such as the mini-map, enemy positions, and team communication.
Attribution Theory refers to the process of attributing causes to events or outc… #
Related terms include causal attribution, locus of control, and self-efficacy. In esports, attribution theory can help players understand the reasons behind their successes or failures, and adjust their strategies accordingly. For instance, a player may attribute their loss to bad luck or poor team communication, rather than their own skills or efforts.
Autonomy refers to the degree of control an individual has over their actions an… #
Related terms include self-determination, independence, and agency. In esports, autonomy is important for players to feel motivated and engaged, as they are able to make choices about their own practice and playstyle. For example, a player may have autonomy to choose their own champion or playstyle, which can enhance their sense of ownership and motivation.
Burnout refers to a state of emotional, mental, and physical exhaustion caused b… #
Related terms include fatigue, exhaustion, and depletion. In esports, burnout is a common challenge faced by players, particularly those who practice for extended periods or compete at a high level. For instance, a player may experience burnout due to the demands of a grueling practice schedule or the pressure to perform well in competitions.
Challenge Appraisal refers to the process of evaluating the level of challenge o… #
Related terms include risk appraisal, threat appraisal, and coping appraisal. In esports, challenge appraisal is critical for players to assess the level of difficulty in a game or opponent, and adjust their strategies accordingly. For example, a player may appraise a challenging opponent as a threat to their win, and adjust their strategy to mitigate the risk.
Cognitive Appraisal refers to the process of evaluating and interpreting informa… #
Related terms include perception, interpretation, and evaluation. In esports, cognitive appraisal is essential for players to make informed decisions and adjust their strategies during gameplay. For instance, a player may appraise an opponent's strategy as aggressive or defensive, and adjust their own strategy to counter it.
Commitment refers to the degree of dedication and loyalty an individual has to a… #
Related terms include dedication, loyalty, and responsibility. In esports, commitment is critical for players to stay motivated and focused on their goals, particularly during challenging times. For example, a player may be committed to their team and teammates, which can enhance their sense of belonging and motivation.
Confidence refers to an individual's belief in their ability to succeed or perfo… #
Related terms include self-efficacy, self-confidence, and faith. In esports, confidence is essential for players to perform well and stay motivated, particularly in high-pressure situations. For instance, a player may have confidence in their aiming skills or game knowledge, which can enhance their overall performance.
Control refers to the degree of influence an individual has over their environme… #
Related terms include agency, autonomy, and power. In esports, control is important for players to feel motivated and engaged, as they are able to make choices about their own practice and playstyle. For example, a player may have control over their champion selection or game settings, which can enhance their sense of ownership and motivation.
Coping refers to the strategies and techniques used to manage stress, anxiety, o… #
Related terms include resilience, adaptability, and stress management. In esports, coping is essential for players to manage the pressures and stresses of competition, and maintain their mental and emotional well-being. For instance, a player may use coping strategies such as deep breathing or visualization to manage their anxiety before a match.
Emotional Intelligence refers to the ability to recognize and understand emotion… #
Related terms include emotional awareness, emotional regulation, and empathy. In esports, emotional intelligence is critical for players to manage their own emotions and interact effectively with their teammates. For example, a player may be able to recognize and manage their own frustration or anger, which can enhance their overall performance and teamwork.
Emotional Regulation refers to the ability to manage and modulate one's own emot… #
Related terms include emotional control, emotional expression, and mood management. In esports, emotional regulation is essential for players to maintain their focus and composure under pressure, and avoid negative emotional states such as anxiety or anger.
Extrinsic Motivation refers to the external factors that drive an individual's b… #
Related terms include external motivation, extrinsic rewards, and social motivation. In esports, extrinsic motivation can be a powerful driver of behavior, particularly in the form of prizes, recognition, or fame.
Flow State refers to a mental state of complete absorption and engagement in an… #
Related terms include optimal performance, peak experience, and immersion. In esports, flow state is often referred to as being "in the zone," and is associated with exceptional performance and enjoyment.
Goal Setting refers to the process of establishing specific, achievable, and mea… #
Related terms include objective setting, target setting, and planning. In esports, goal setting is critical for players to stay motivated and focused, particularly in the context of practice and competition. For example, a player may set a goal to improve their aiming skills or climb the ranks, which can enhance their sense of direction and motivation.
Group Dynamics refer to the interactions and relationships within a group, such… #
Related terms include teamwork, communication, and social interaction. In esports, group dynamics are essential for teams to work together effectively, communicate clearly, and build a positive and supportive team culture.
Identity refers to an individual's sense of self and their role within a group o… #
Related terms include self-concept, self-identity, and role identity. In esports, identity is important for players to develop a sense of belonging and connection to their team or community, which can enhance their motivation and engagement.
Intrinsic Motivation refers to the internal factors that drive an individual's b… #
Related terms include internal motivation, intrinsic rewards, and autonomy. In esports, intrinsic motivation is critical for players to stay motivated and engaged, particularly in the context of practice and competition. For example, a player may be motivated by the fun and enjoyment of playing, rather than external rewards or recognition.
Learning Style refers to an individual's preferred method of learning and acquir… #
Related terms include learning approach, learning strategy, and cognitive style. In esports, learning style is important for players to develop effective strategies for improving their skills and knowledge, such as through watching tutorials or practicing with a coach.
Mental Toughness refers to the ability to perform well under pressure and mainta… #
Related terms include resilience, mental strength, and confidence. In esports, mental toughness is critical for players to stay focused and motivated, particularly in high-pressure situations such as competitions or tournaments.
Mindset refers to an individual's attitude and perspective towards a particular… #
Related terms include mental attitude, mindset shift, and perspective. In esports, mindset is essential for players to develop a positive and growth-oriented mindset, which can enhance their motivation and performance. For example, a player may have a growth mindset, which can help them approach challenges with a sense of curiosity and excitement.
Motivation refers to the driving forces that initiate and sustain an individual'… #
Related terms include drive, motivation theory, and incentive. In esports, motivation is critical for players to stay engaged and focused, particularly in the context of practice and competition. For example, a player may be motivated by the desire to win or improve, which can enhance their sense of direction and purpose.
Performance Anxiety refers to the feelings of nervousness or apprehension that c… #
Related terms include stage fright, performance pressure, and anxiety. In esports, performance anxiety is a common challenge faced by players, particularly those who compete at a high level. For instance, a player may experience nervousness or jitters before a match, which can affect their performance and overall well-being.
Personality refers to an individual's unique characteristics, traits, and tenden… #
Related terms include personality type, personality traits, and individuality. In esports, personality is important for players to develop a sense of self-awareness and understanding of their own strengths and weaknesses, which can enhance their motivation and performance.
Positive Self #
Talk refers to the practice of using positive and encouraging language to enhance one's own motivation and confidence. Related terms include self-talk, positive affirmations, and encouragement. In esports, positive self-talk is essential for players to develop a positive and supportive mindset, which can enhance their motivation and performance. For example, a player may use positive self-talk to boost their confidence or calm their nerves before a match.
Practice refers to the repeated and deliberate effort to improve one's skills an… #
Related terms include training, practice schedule, and drills. In esports, practice is critical for players to develop and refine their skills, particularly in the context of competitive play. For instance, a player may practice their aiming skills or map awareness to improve their overall performance.
Recovery refers to the process of restoring physical and mental energy after a p… #
Related terms include rest, recovery techniques, and relaxation. In esports, recovery is essential for players to manage their physical and mental health, particularly in the context of prolonged practice or competition. For example, a player may use recovery techniques such as stretching or meditation to manage their stress and fatigue.
Resilience refers to the ability to withstand and recover from adversity, trauma… #
Related terms include bouncing back, resilience training, and stress management. In esports, resilience is critical for players to manage the pressures and stresses of competition, and maintain their mental and emotional well-being. For instance, a player may develop resilience through exposure to challenging situations or practice in managing their emotions and stress.
Role Model refers to an individual who serves as a model or inspiration for othe… #
Related terms include mentor, role model behavior, and leadership. In esports, role models are important for players to develop a sense of admiration and respect for their peers or idols, which can enhance their motivation and performance.
Self #
Awareness refers to the ability to recognize and understand one's own thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Related terms include self-reflection, self-awareness training, and introspection. In esports, self-awareness is essential for players to develop a sense of self-awareness and understanding of their own strengths and weaknesses, which can enhance their motivation and performance.
Self #
Efficacy refers to an individual's belief in their ability to succeed or perform well. Related terms include confidence, self-efficacy theory, and competence. In esports, self-efficacy is critical for players to develop a sense of confidence and faith in their abilities, which can enhance their motivation and performance.
Self #
Regulation refers to the ability to manage and modulate one's own thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Related terms include self-control, self-regulation theory, and emotion regulation. In esports, self-regulation is essential for players to manage their own emotions and behaviors, particularly in high-pressure situations such as competitions or tournaments.
Social Support refers to the network of relationships and interactions that prov… #
Related terms include social network, social support theory, and community. In esports, social support is critical for players to develop a sense of belonging and connection to their team or community, which can enhance their motivation and performance.
Stress Management refers to the strategies and techniques used to manage and red… #
Related terms include stress reduction, stress management techniques, and relaxation. In esports, stress management is essential for players to manage the pressures and stresses of competition, and maintain their mental and emotional well-being. For instance, a player may use stress management techniques such as deep breathing or exercise to manage their stress and anxiety.
Team Cohesion refers to the degree of unity and cooperation within a team #
Related terms include teamwork, team cohesion theory, and communication. In esports, team cohesion is critical for teams to work together effectively, communicate clearly, and build a positive and supportive team culture.
Teamwork refers to the collaborative effort and interaction between team members… #
Related terms include collaboration, teamwork theory, and cooperation. In esports, teamwork is essential for teams to work together effectively, communicate clearly, and build a positive and supportive team culture.
Visualization refers to the mental imagery and rehearsal of a performance or sce… #
Related terms include mental rehearsal, visualization techniques, and imagery. In esports, visualization is a useful technique for players to prepare and rehearse for competitions, and enhance their confidence and performance. For example, a player may use visualization to rehearse a difficult scenario or imagine themselves winning a match.