The pressure and heat of competition bring out the best and the worst in athletes and parents. I’ve been amazed to see parents who always seem so calm, go berserk at their child’s games. Kids are not the only ones who need to work on handling their emotions! I’d like to give you three tips to use next time you feel your blood pressure rising and the emotions starting to spiral downward.

Tip #1 Work on Perspective

A shift in perspective can totally change your demeanor. Here’s one way to make that shift. Take whatever is in front of you now and envision it in 20-30 years. Then ask yourself: How important will it be then? Will it be important in 20-30 years if your child played defensive line instead of running back like they want? Will it be important in 20-30 years if your child played half the game, instead of 3/4?