As leaders, managers, parents, or sports coaches, our intentions are often geared towards nurturing success and unlocking potential. However, motivating others isn't always straightforward, especially when negative judgment comes into play.

In our coaching experiences at MentallyToughEdge.com, we've observed that feedback, when delivered in a judgmental manner, can have unintended consequences. Communication comprises not just words but also body language and tone, with words accounting for only 7% of the message.

Negative judgmental feedback breeds feelings of anxiety, stress, and self-doubt, hampering motivation and fostering a negative internal dialogue. This is particularly impactful for teens, shaping their self-perception and attitudes towards themselves and others.

The way we talk to our children becomes their inner voice. - Peggy O'Mara

Fortunately, there's a better approach:

1. Focus on the Positive: Emphasize strengths and accomplishments. Positive feedback encourages a shift towards a more positive mindset.

2. Encourage Incremental Change: Support small, gradual improvements rather than expecting perfection overnight. This approach prevents overwhelm and sustains motivation.

3. Provide Feed Forward: Instead of dwelling on past mistakes, focus on actionable steps for the future. Encourage learning from experiences and moving forward constructively.

Bonus Tip: Shift from Judgment to Blameless Discernment. Discernment involves making conscious, constructive choices, fostering ownership, problem-solving skills, and confidence in one's abilities.

Success is fostered through collaboration, tapping into individuals' insights and fostering resilience. With a mindset geared towards growth and development, remarkable results are achievable.

Unlock the full potential of teen athletes and individuals alike with MentallyToughEdge.com's empowering coaching approach. Let's cultivate mental toughness and drive towards success together!