Brooklyn Johnson, May – “With its billions of interconnected neurons, whose interactions change from millisecond to millisecond, the human brain is an archetypal complex system.” -Michio Kaku.
This quote reminds us of how massive our brains are even though they are small enough to fit under our skulls. The brain is always operating 24/7, and it can be difficult to calm our thoughts down. Archery is a sport that requires focus and composure. If we don’t control our thoughts while shooting, it can cause our arrows to not go to the correct spot or other negative results.
For example, if an archer was thinking, “I hope I don’t hit my arm. I hope I don’t hit my arm,” while the bow is drawn, more than likely, that archer is going to hit his/her arm and mess up the shot. Not only that, but other thoughts that could affect an archer’s shooting include everyday thoughts. For instance, an archer might be aiming and suddenly think, “What was that noise behind me?” or “Did I forget to take my vitamins again?” These thoughts may not seem bad, but they can harm how we shoot and where our arrows go. So, how can we be focused when our brains are working nonstop? Well, thankfully, there are some tools that can help us try to control the thoughts we have.
When asked how to have positive thoughts while shooting, Chelsi Leggett, the head archery coach at Carl Junction, says, “Focus on what you can control, not on everything you cannot. So you had a rough morning, bad day at school, lots of background noise on the line, etc. You’re still in control of your composure and how you handle yourself on the line, no excuses.” Coach Leggett is completely correct. Our thoughts on the line can’t be about everyday things, like school, chores, etc. We need to think about what we are doing now: shooting.
Grace Ware, a Carl Junction High School junior who participates in archery, says, “You can’t get dejected about one arrow, since that’ll affect the round and the rest of the flight. Positive thoughts aren’t always the priority, just preventing negative thoughts…I usually try not to think too hard and I hum whatever song is stuck in my head to keep any negative thoughts out. Three-word phrases also help to get to aiming points, especially if there’s a lot of stress happening.” What Grace is saying is great! Sometimes, you just need to say something like, “I love ice cream” before you release.
However, sometimes, negative thoughts still come in, even if we are focused on archery. For example, if an archer shoots a bad arrow, they might start to beat themselves up about it. You can’t afford to be negative. Coach Leggett is big on positivity. “Protect the self-image at all costs,” she says, “You cannot approach the line defeated or you’ve already missed the mark. Focus on shooting each arrow for your team when you’re struggling within, it’s not just about you and chasing a number, it’s about contributing to the greater outcome of the team. You may miss your personal best but you can still contribute beyond just score. Those that are driven by faith and a relationship with Jesus Christ, shoot for the glory of God. Perspective is everything – when it’s a positive perspective, it tends to impact those around you for the better. Hold your composure regardless of outcome and give God the glory for another opportunity to shoot on the line and with your team. After all, there’s nothing like the Archery family!”
