It doesn't matter the sport we play; the toughest field/court happens to be in our head. Many athletes grow up developing the physical aspect of competing, but few are given strategies to understand and address their psychological needs. Now is the time for you to empower yourself with the knowledge to keep it together when you need it most. Learn how to identify and conquer stress, distractions, self-doubt, and negativity and prepare your mind for success.

10 Tips to Ease Your Mind

1. List it
Write a list of the things you need to accomplish for the day. If you have to run errands, plan your appointments so that you don't have to make multiple trips around town.

2. Just say "No"
It's ok to turn people down when they ask you to do something you know you don't have time to do. Overburdening yourself with duties will add stress to your life, not to mention sour your attitude.

3. Smell the roses
Every now and again you should take the long way home. That time in the car is good for unwinding and listening to your favorite CD. It may also put you in a better mood for whatever's waiting for you at home.

4. Stay loose
Female athletes only know one hairstyle... one tight pigtail through a baseball cap. If you constantly pull your hair back you might develop mild headaches. Wear your hear out for a change and give your scalp a break.

5. Veg
Take the phone off the hook, rent some movies, and sit back with a nice hot drink.

6. Who cares?
You can't control what other people do or say, so don't worry about it. Worry translates into physical stress and illness. Obsessive worry is a poison in your mind. Focus on living your life to the fullest.

7. Be on time
You know your bills are due at the beginning of every month. As they come in the mail, set them aside in a designated spot. On the Saturday before the end of the month, write all your checks for your bills so that they are ready to mail. Having everything ready eliminates the rush and negative emotions associated with seeing your paycheck go right back out the door.

8. Clear the air
OK, this one takes some will-power. You know that person that did something to make you upset? You keep holding it in, gossiping about them, maybe even plotting against them? Remember, people have different personality types, and sometimes they don't know how they are coming across. Instead of harboring negative thoughts in your mind, confront the person respectfully and get it cleared up.

9. You deserve it
As women, we tend to put everybody before ourselves. We often feel guilty if we buy something we like. It's ok, every once in a while, to splurge on something nice for ourselves... and don't think twice. If it makes you feel beautiful, then get it!

10. Ask questions
It's amazing how the older we get, the smarter our parents become. Don't try to make life's decisions by yourself. It's a good idea to get counsel and support from your close friends and family when you have tough decisions to make. Having someone there to work through things with you can make a big difference in your peace of mind.