The Essentials of an Underdog Story

Hello Champion,

Un·​der·​dog - A competitor who has little chance of winning a fight or contest.

At least that is the outside perspective. A true champion makes the most of every opportunity.

Great athletes have dedicated so much time to their craft that the underdog label becomes a source of motivation. Embracing the pressure, doubt, and adversity is a way to relieve the anxiety around performance.

Every year in March, 68 of the best NCAA college basketball teams in the Men’s and Women’s divisions gather for the NCAA tournament.

Fans live to see who will be the next Cinderella.

Smaller colleges from lesser known conferences get the opportunity to go against the best college basketball programs in the country. These smaller schools are filled with players that went “under the radar” in recruiting and get a chance to make a name for themselves on the biggest stage. One opportunity to make a lifetime of memories.

Who will be the next UMBC, FDU, Princeton, or Saint Peter’s?

This NCAA tournament and the incredible stories that come from it can serve as a great reminder to persist in pursuing your goals. Embracing an underdog mentality is a great tool to succeed in situations where you may not be expected to.

Here are three essentials of an underdog mindset:

1. Live in the moment

2. Remind yourself of all of the time you have devoted

3. Play to your strengths

Being present in the moment can help you succeed in a difficult competition. It is important to be confident because of your past preparation.

Remind yourself of how much hard work you put in to get to where you are today. It took dedication and determination to get to the present.

Champions remember what they are best at. When taking on a superior opponent, find their weaknesses and attack them with your strengths.

Having a mindset that you have nothing to lose and everything to gain can serve you in difficult moments. Continue to believe in yourself and do not allow outside pressures to affect your performance.

We are in your corner.

The WTMG Team