How to set pitching goals – and accomplish them

In 2007, I want to ____________________.

What would you write in this blank space?

One of the best ways to accomplish your baseball dreams is to set goals. Think about it for a minute: Think about some of the things you'd like to accomplish on the pitcher's mound in 2007.

Then, once you've come up with a list, write them down on a piece of paper. Tape that piece of paper next to your bed (or if you're an older high school student who drives, tape it to the dashboard of your car). Put those goals in a spot that you'll see on a regular basis.

Visualizing your pitching goals is one way to accomplish them -- and all successful pitchers do it.

In my pitching  book, The Complete Pitcher's Ultimate Guide to Advanced Pitching Philosophies, I talk about how to set goals, and I give you 10 pitching objectives to study.

You can get it here.

But you don't have to order my book to get started in accomplishing your goals for 2007. Here are seven simple tips to have a productive baseball season:

1. Set a clear precise goal

Start with one thing that you want to achieve. Whatever the goal, make it specific and put it in writing. For example, "throw first pitch strikes to hitters," or "put hitters away when you have two strikes on them."

2. Set a realistic time frame

There are no unrealistic goals, just unrealistic time frames. For example, if you want to throw harder, it simply won't happen overnight. Instead, if you dedicate yourself to following a quality training routine, such as that found in The TUFFCUFF Strength and Conditioning Manual for Baseball Pitchers, you can expect to see the results you desire.

3. Break down long-term goals into short-term goals

Arrange long term goals into short term goals: daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly. What can you do today, right now, to start getting better at pitching?

4. Measure progress

Make corrections as needed. Note progress, and write it all down so you can reference it in the future. This way you can see what made you successful or unsuccessful and can make adjustments accordingly. Check out my TUFFCUFF Training Monitor for more information. It's in the manual.

5. Create motivation

"Desire" what it will mean for you to accomplish the goal.

6. Mental picturing

See yourself attaining the goal using all senses: touch, sight, hear, taste, and smell. Bring the visualized experience to life!

For example, picture yourself making the perfect pitch in the last inning of a close game with runners on base, threatening to score. Hear the crowd roar, smell the hot dog stand, see nothing but your catcher's glove, etc.

7. Believe in yourself

Maintain a positive attitude and never, ever give up!

Fill in the blank:

In 2007, I'm going to ____________________, because I've prepared to the best of my ability.

That's how winners are made! And that's how to become a complete pitcher.