What happens when an opponent becomes bigger than the game? In this episode of The Mentally Fit Athlete, we field a question from a high-school sports psychology class: how do admiration or animosity toward an opponent affect performance? Jason explains the value of focusing on controllables—your preparation, routine, breathing and mindset—while Lydia offers practical ways to avoid comparison traps (yes, we mean athlete stat sites and highlight reels). We share an inspiring story about using a tough opponent as a confidence-builder, offer a three-question self-reflection template to untangle emotions from identity or cultural pressure, and remind athletes of a simple but powerful truth: get back to having fun.
Featured Resources & Links:
Lidia Garcia, MSW• Website: lidiagarcia.net• Instagram: @liddie.g• Pasadena Run Club: @pasadena.runclub
Dr. Jason von Stietz• Website: drjasonvonstietz.com• Instagram: @cbtsportpsych• Bluesky: @cbtsportpsych