Boost Your Mental Game This Holiday Season: Sport Psychology Lessons from Christmas Movies
The holiday season may be winding down, but it isn’t over yet! There’s still time to soak in the Christmas spirit a little longer. If you’re anything like me, you’re trying to balance some much-needed time off and holiday cheer with a little bit of productivity. What better way to sharpen your mental game than by listening to podcast episodes that break down Christmas-themed movies from the perspective of mental health and sport performance psychology? Check out the following episodes:
Anna and the Apocalypse (2017) and Sport Psychology
"Justin Bieber is a zombie!" This solo episode takes a closer look at the Christmas-musical-zombie-comedy Anna and the Apocalypse. It’s an unusual mix of genres, but it’s packed with lessons on focus, team cohesion, and problem-solving. Whether you’re dodging zombies or competing on the field, these skills are essential for staying sharp under pressure.
Nightmare Before Christmas and Sport Psychology with Dr. Rachel Hoeft
"I AM THE PUMPKIN KING!" Join me and Dr. Rachel Hoeft, a cognitive performance specialist, as we explore Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas. Jack Skellington’s burnout and quest for fulfillment serve as the backdrop for our discussion on motivation, leadership, and the impact of intentions versus actions. It’s a valuable conversation for anyone looking to understand balance and purpose in their pursuits.
Violent Night: Burnout, Overtraining Syndrome, and Knowing Your Why
In Violent Night, David Harbour’s Santa starts off as a burnt-out, disillusioned version of the jolly icon. Over the course of the movie, he reconnects with his "why" and finds his purpose again. This episode is packed with insights for athletes facing burnout or overtraining, offering practical takeaways on staying motivated and grounded.
Die Hard and Sport Psychology with David Smith
"Welcome to the party, pal!" In this episode, I sit down with David Smith, MSc, to break down the 1980s classic Die Hard. We delve into John McClane’s focus under pressure, his relationships, and the psychological chess match between hero and villain. It’s a great listen for anyone interested in resilience, adaptability, and mental toughness.
Wrap Up the Holiday Season with Insight
These episodes are more than just festive—they’re an opportunity to reflect on key sport psychology concepts while enjoying your favorite holiday movies. So, grab a cup of cocoa, hit play, and work on your mental game!