How can I control myself from being nervous when playing a tournament?

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voidstone

Everytime I play a tournament I always get nervous. Is there anything that I can do to be relaxed?

turn

Try,

drinking water,

meditating (or simply closing your eyes while sitting, leaning against the wall),

and

don't be too focused on winning

Summum_Malum

Drink LOTS of coffee!! =)

marcusmarsman

What is there to loose ? Enjoy ! :-)

voidstone

Tnx guys... :)

shokolat2000

hmmmm i have this problem too not just 4 tournoment 4 all games!

philidorposition

I think the trick is not trying to NOT get nervous; nervous is OK, it's a part of the game, more important is trying to perform well while you're nervous.

funkeymoves
voidstone wrote:

Everytime I play a tournament I always get nervous. Is there anything that I can do to be relaxed?


Live OTB or online  CC tournaments?  Yes. Try to remain calm on both.  Study your position/s on the board.  Decide your best moves.  Have fun!  It is just a game after all. lol

dsarkar

I think nervousness goes only 

(1) after playing LOTS of tournaments.

It is a problem common to many - not just you.

(2) when you get the taste of success and gain confidence.

 

The following may be tried:

(a) do not dwell on thoughts of losing - rather think on how you can win. Think, "yes! I can win!"

(b) think "nobody is paying any attention to me" - everyone is busy with own problems or thoughts. Thoughts of self-consciousness (other people are watching me) increase nervousness

(c) try deep, slow, gradual breathing whenever you feel nervous.

 

note: coffee and other stimulants do not work for everyone - in some people coffee or stimulants actually increase nervousness.

Paradox356
turn wrote:

don't be too focused on winning


What?! What is this nonsense?