Every game is composed of two parts, an outer game, and an inner
game. The outer game is played against an external opponent to
overcome external obstacles and to reach an external goal. Mas- - taring
this game is the subject of many books offering instructions: on how to
swing a racket, club or bat, and how to position arms, legs or torso to
achieve the best results. But for some reason, most of us find these
instructions easier to remember than to execute. It is the thesis of this
book that neither mastery nor satisfaction can be found in the playing of
any game without giving some attention to the relatively neglected skills
of the inner game. This is the game that takes place in the mind of the
player, and it is played against such obstacles as lapses in concentration,
nervousness, self-doubt, and self-condemnation. In short, it is played to
overcome all habits of mind which inhibit excellence in performance. We
often wonder why we play so well one day and so poorly the next, or why
we clutch during the competition, or blow easy shots. And why does it take
so long to break a bad habit and learn a new one?