Sports psychologist debunks 'think positive' mantra for athletes - Ep61 [TIMESPORT PODCAST]

New Straits Times

22-07-2025

KUALA LUMPUR: The age-old mantra of "just think positive" may be doing more harm than good for Malaysian athletes, warns a top sports psychologist.
Philip Lew, who has worked with national athletes under the Road to Gold programme and Selangor Red Giants' eSports team, believes true mental resilience comes not from silencing negative thoughts, but from learning how to manage them effectively.
"It's extremely difficult to simply think positively, especially when you're facing the pressure of major competitions," said Philip on Timesport: On The Beat, airing Tuesday.
"As long as you're human, you will have negative thoughts. It's not a problem unless it becomes one."
Rather than pushing unrealistic positivity, Philip promotes a more practical, empowering approach that encourages athletes to acknowledge fear and reframe it.
One of his go-to methods?
A simple but powerful mindset shift called the "But" technique.
"An athlete might say, 'I couldn't do it.' That's a normal reaction. But you follow it with something constructive — '...but I'll try again' or '...but I've trained hard for this.'"
"You're not denying how you feel. You're redirecting your focus to what comes next."
Philip says the method allows athletes to process tough emotions without spiralling, creating a mental bridge between fear and renewed focus.
He also reminds fans that elite athletes aren't immune to stress and anxiety.
"They're normal people doing extraordinary things," he said.
"We must accept that they can be vulnerable too. The pressure to be perfect is immense."
While occasional doubts are normal, Philip warns that unchecked negativity can damage both daily life and sporting performance.
"If it starts interfering with your life, then it's time to get professional help."
Philip's approach shifts the conversation away from shallow, toxic positivity and towards real-world mental tools that prepare athletes for the highs and lows of elite sport.
"It's not about thinking happy thoughts all the time," he said.
"It's about building the mental skills to move forward — even when the thoughts aren't happy."