By Coach Walter Aguilar | Mindset Coach

"What rests in your pocket can either forge your focus or quietly unravel your game."

If you want to become the best hockey player or goalie you can be, you already know it takes hard work, focus, and consistency. However, there's another element that can subtly influence your play, thoughts, and emotions, and it's already within your reach.

Your phone can be your greatest tool or your biggest distraction. Social media can either help you stay inspired or slowly drain your confidence, your focus, and even your love for the game.

Imagine stepping on the ice with a clear, confident mind, ready to enjoy the game and give your best every shift. Now imagine showing up distracted because you stayed up too late scrolling, comparing yourself to other players, or worrying about likes and comments. The truth is, your performance during those moments is determined by your mindset.

When you take charge of your social media habits, you are not merely limiting your screen time. You are protecting your joy, sharpening your focus, and developing the mindset of a champion.

How Social Media Can Quietly Hurt Your Game

Social media is full of highlight reels that showcase the players' best moments. Everyone appears to be training harder, scoring more goals, or receiving more recognition than you. This distraction can make you feel like you’re falling behind or not good enough.

It also trains your brain to constantly seek quick bursts of attention and excitement. Over time, this can make it harder to stay focused in practice, listen to your coaches, or bounce back after a mistake. When you’re losing sleep from scrolling, your energy and alertness will also suffer.

All these factors accumulate over time. It’s not only about what you share online. IIt is important to consider the mental, emotional, and physical costs associated with your phone usage.

Five Ways to Regain Control of Your Hockey Mindset

1. Pay Attention to How You Feel

After you go on social media, take a moment to check in with yourself. Do you feel motivated, or do you feel jealous, anxious, or distracted? Awareness is your first step toward change.

2. Set Real Boundaries

Decide when and where you will use your phone. Try putting your phone away 30 minutes before bed. Your brains and bodies need rest to recover, so you can perform your best the next day.

3. Focus on Your Own Progress

Stop comparing yourself to other players. Write down one small win every day, like a save you made, a good pass, or a moment you pushed through frustration. Progress happens one rep, one shift, and one day at a time.

4. Practice Being Present

Spend time each day without using your phone. Talk to your teammates, spend time with your family, or engage in activities that help you relax. Being present helps you perform at your best when it matters most.

5. Get Support When You Need It

If managing your phone feels difficult, talk to your coach, parent, or teammate. Every great player receives help. Asking for support isn’t weakness. It’s wisdom.

Final Thoughts

You are in control of your mindset. By taking charge of your social media habits, you train your brain to remain focused, confident, and grounded. This distinction separates good players from great ones.

Remember, your real competition is not on Instagram. It represents the version of yourself from yesterday. Keep showing up, keep learning, and keep growing.

If you need help building a stronger mindset and creating better habits, please reach out. II will help you learn how to protect your focus, joy, and love for the game because that is what real success looks like.