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When you replay a mistake, your brain fires the same stress response as the original moment. Your heart rate spikes, your muscles tense, and your decision-making slows down — all from a memory.
One study found that athletes who ruminate after mistakes perform 15-20% worse on the next play. The mistake itself isn't the problem — it's what happens in your head after.
What would you do?
You just missed an easy shot in front of everyone. You can feel your face getting hot. What do you do in the next 5 seconds?