Episode 218

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Published on:

17th Nov 2025

#222 – The Setback That Made Me Play Small And How You Can Avoid It

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Episode Summary:


In this episode, Ian opens up about a pivotal moment early in his coaching career, a setback that shook his confidence, held him back for years, and ultimately taught him what true high performance really looks like. He shares the story of helping a young elite footballer get into a high-performance state, only for the athlete to be sent off six minutes into the game. Instead of seeing the bigger picture, Ian internalised the outcome, blamed himself, and unconsciously began playing small.


Through revisiting that moment years later, Ian reveals how setbacks can distort your self-perception and why high performers often take failures too personally. He explores the psychology behind “over-arousal” in performance, the danger of tying your identity to outcomes, and the importance of recognising what’s actually within your control.


This episode is a practical blueprint for anyone who has ever felt derailed by doubt: how to review the reality, disrupt the pattern, reset your direction, and move forward with clarity. Ian breaks down how elite principles apply far beyond sport, into parenting, leadership, self-belief, and taking ownership of your growth.


About the Host:


Ian Hawkins is dedicated to showing how sports can transform lives. With extensive experience as an athlete, a coach, PE teacher, community volunteer, and manager at Fox Sports, Ian brings a wealth of knowledge to the podcast. His journey began in his backyard, mentored by his older brother, and has since evolved into coaching elite athletes and business leaders. Ian's commitment to sports and personal development is evident in his roles as a performance coach and active community member. Through "Sport Is Life," Ian shares inspiring stories and valuable lessons to help listeners apply sports principles to all areas of life.


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About the Podcast

Sport Is Life
It's More Than Just A Game
The Sport Is Life podcast explores how sport can positively change your life. Join us as we delve into the powerful life lessons that sport teaches you, lessons that can be applied to every aspect of your life. Host Ian Hawkins shares wisdom and insights gained from a lifetime of experience as an athlete, husband, father, PE teacher, community volunteer, manager at Fox Sports and a performance coach to elite athletes, business owners, corporate leaders, and other coaches. Tune in to hear how sports can provide the tools you need to excel in your personal and professional life. From practical advice to heartfelt stories, the "Sport Is Life Podcast" is your guide to unlocking the potential within you through the power of sport.

Sport is more than just a game; Sport Is Life.

About your host

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Ian Hawkins

Ian Hawkins, host of "Sport Is Life," is dedicated to showing how sports can transform lives. With extensive experience as an athlete, a coach, PE teacher, community volunteer, and manager at Fox Sports, Ian brings a wealth of knowledge to the podcast. His journey began in his backyard, mentored by his older brother, and has since evolved into coaching elite athletes and business leaders. Ian's commitment to sports and personal development is evident in his roles as a performance coach and active community member. Through "Sport Is Life," Ian shares inspiring stories and valuable lessons to help listeners apply sports principles to all areas of life.