Quiet As A Mouse - Viking Cues Tip of the Week with Mike Roque author of Build Your Game. A

Quiet As A Mouse

“I don’t like to talk during a game. I just concentrate on my own shots.”

-Mark Wilson

VERY FEW world–class players can carry on a conversation while competing and play to their maximum potential. Language is a function of the left–brain. It’s part of the same neural system that deals with intellect, logic, and problem solving. Great playing is more easily accessed through sense and feel, which are processed through the right–brain.

It’s not impossible to talk and play well. Earl Strickland is certainly capable of it, and Mike Sigel was nicknamed “The Mouth.” They are exceptional players, and no one could argue with their records of success. However, for most people, talk is a distraction. That’s one of the reasons it works so well as a sharking technique.

Some players are naturally more talkative, and the casual comment is fine. However, beware of opponents who keep up a constant banter. They’ll catch you off guard with friendly questions and keep your mind busy thinking. This has the effect of taking you out of the intuitive zone and into the left–brain thinking zone.

Don’t fall for this diversion. Keep your focus and intensity on playing your best pool. Be courteous, but once the match starts, don’t participate in an ongoing conversation.

Keep the talk to a minimum and focus on the table!

Love our Tuesday Tip of the Week with Mike Roque, you can purchase your own copy of his book "Build Your Game" at the BEBOB Publishing Website at http://bebobpublishing.com/