We’ve all had one. That match where nothing worked.
Where frustration piled up.
Where your attitude tanked and your energy spiraled.
Where you walked off the court thinking:
"I just mentally collapsed out there." It’s humbling. And it’s real. But here’s the key: a mental collapse doesn’t define you — how you respond to it does. At Mental Pickleball, I coach players to build a recovery routine — not just for sore muscles, but for sore mindsets. Because bouncing back starts after the collapse. Here’s what that process looks like: 1. Own It Without Overattaching Say it honestly: “I didn’t handle that well.”
But avoid the spiral: “I’m a mental mess… I’ll never be good at this.”
You’re not your last match — you’re your next choice. 2. Reflect, Don’t Ruminate Grab a journal, a voice memo, or a quiet moment. Ask:

• What triggered my spiral?
• Where did I lose focus?
• What can I try differently next time?
  Turn regret into strategy.

3. Reset Your Identity One collapse doesn’t mean you’re weak.
It means you’re human — and training.
Affirm your long game: “I’m becoming a more resilient player, one match at a time.” 4. Move Your Body (with Compassion) Take a walk. Go for a light hit. Do something physical that reminds you: you’re still an athlete, you’re still growing, and this game is still yours to love. Today’s challenge:
If you’ve had a recent mental collapse — or one still living rent-free in your head — give yourself 15 minutes to walk through this recovery routine. Own it. Learn from it. Then let it go. You’re not the player who collapsed.
You’re the player who came back better. Quiet Mind, Fierce Game.