Inside every pickleball player, there’s a doubles team playing a mental match. One voice is critical, calculating, and afraid of messing up. That’s Self 1 — the thinker, the judge, the control freak. The other voice is intuitive, responsive, and naturally skilled. That’s Self 2 — the doer, the feeler, the part of you that knows how to play.

And here’s the kicker: your worst games happen when 

You miss a dink, and Self 1 shouts,
 “Seriously? How do you keep messing that up?”
 Now you're overthinking the next shot. Your muscles tighten. Your confidence dips. You’re playing not to lose — not to win.

But when Self 2 leads, you flow. You respond. You trust your training. That’s the sweet spot.

The goal isn’t to silence Self 1 forever — it’s to turn down the volume. Let Self 2 play while Self 1 rides shotgun, quietly.

So how do we do that?

Notice the chatter without feeding it.

Redirect your focus to rhythm, breath, and feel.

Use phrases like: “Let it come,” or “Just play.”
 They’re gentle cues that speak Self 2’s language.

Today’s challenge:
 Next time you're warming up or mid-match, notice when Self 1 jumps in. Then invite Self 2 to respond. Try using rhythm or breath to shift control. Even one point played in that space is a win.

Your best partner might already be inside you.
 Quiet Mind, Fierce Game.

Want help quieting Self 1 and unlocking Self 2?
 Let’s work on your inner team.
 Book a free virtual session with Coach Kevin at mentalpickleball.com.