How I Utilize Journaling to Enhance My Mindset: Kaleigh Kurtz

AS A PROFESSIONAL ATHLETE…

I’m constantly seeking ways to enhance my mental fitness and maintain a positive mindset, both on and off the field. Today, I wanted to share with you one of my personal practices that has become a cornerstone of my routine  👉 journaling 📓.

I’M KALEIGH KURTZ…

a defender for the NC Courage, and journaling has played a pivotal role in my athletic journey. In the demanding world of competitive sports, maintaining focus and motivation is crucial. My job literally depends on it! And this is where I take advantage of the benefits of journaling. I’ve worked hard to make it a daily practice to journal. Whether it’s the day before training, during an off day, or after a match, I’ve developed this transformative habit! The act of journaling has become an essential part of my routine, providing me with a space to reflect, reset, and grow.

HERE’S A RECENT STORY THAT ILLUSTRATES THE IMPACT JOURNALING HAS HAD ON MY JOURNEY.

After a recent game in San Diego, I made a mistake that resulted in Alex Morgan scoring against me. I felt embarrassed. Nobody wants this! After the game, and in the two weeks leading up to our next game against Orlando, I turned to my journal and continued to do what I’ve trained myself to do. I continued to ‘practice’ journaling. I reminded myself of my strengths and formulated a plan to reclaim my confidence. It was a process that enabled me to push through the setback and prepare for the next game.

IN PREPARATION FOR OUR NEXT MATCH AGAINST ORLANDO, I JOURNALED MY DESIRED MINDSET. I WROTE…

‘Today, forget about your goals, reset, push the reset button. We go in to motivate the team. You lead with your voice, you lead by defending on the front foot, you lead by wanting to be on the ball for your teammates. Today is the day everyone is playing their natural positions. Go out and get the win. Play like you’re already down a goal. Review in your mind the principles of defending and know just how good you are on and off the ball. Fight for yourself. You’ve got this. Play with confidence.’

It continues to amaze me how putting pen to paper and truly believing in what I write down can shape my mindset. Despite being 28 years old and having seven years of professional experience, I still find immense value in these practices to help me maintain a positive and focused mindset, on and off the pitch.

HAVE YOU TRIED IT?

Journaling has become an essential tool in my pursuit of mental fitness and personal growth. It’s a habit that I’ve worked hard to develop. And it’s a practice that I recommend to everyone. I encourage you to explore the practice of journaling in your own life. Whether you’re an athlete, a parent, a coach, or simply someone seeking to nurture a positive mindset, taking a few moments each day to reflect, reset, and express your thoughts can have a profound impact on your mental fitness.

Stay Inspired,

Kaleigh Kurtz
NC Courage #3