Expectations. Whether it\u2019s from within or from others, NHLPA members Paul Byron and Jake Gardiner know all about dealing with the stresses of everyday demands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
From a very young age, NHL players are faced with meeting and exceeding expectations, something that only increases as their careers move forward.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Now, as professional hockey players performing on the sport\u2019s biggest stage, the pressure to succeed both individually and as part of a team, can be extremely intense.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cI would tell anyone that it\u2019s not about putting pressure on yourself, it\u2019s more about having confidence in your abilities,\u201d offered Byron, who has played the past four seasons with the Montreal Canadiens. \u201cSometimes, no matter how hard you try, things won\u2019t go as you pictured it would. Understanding that you did your best is a way to remind yourself that success will eventually come.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
That mindset continues to provide a big assist for Byron and Gardiner throughout the 82-game NHL regular season and beyond.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cI think the one thing that stands out for me is that whether you have a good or bad outcome, you have to continue to believe in yourself,\u201d said Gardiner, who has played over 500 games in the NHL, all with the Toronto Maple Leafs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Both players have come to understand \u2014 through various experiences \u2014 that not every day will work out as they had planned. It\u2019s something that helps them keep things in perspective, both at the rink and outside of it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cWhen you face a situation with expectations, try to envision a positive outcome,\u201d said Byron. \u201cAnd you can always talk about how you feel with people you are closest with. Talking about how you are feeling can help make anything you are facing a lot more manageable.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cExpectations, either from yourself or from others, can be tough,\u201d said Gardiner. \u201cBut if you step back, and reassure yourself you can succeed, it can make a huge difference in creating a positive result.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
One of the biggest pieces of advice they want to share: give your top effort in everything you do.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cWhatever it happens to be \u2014 a test at school, an extracurricular activity or helping in your community, you will be encouraged by the fact you tried your best,\u201d said Gardiner. \u201cExpectations will always be there, whether it\u2019s from yourself or others\u2026 keeping a positive attitude is a big help.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cWhether you’re a hockey player or a student, everyone has to deal with expectations,\u201d Gardiner continued. \u201cI think one thing that you try not to do is put too much pressure on yourself. You want to be confident, always try to the best of your ability and believe in yourself.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Byron, who has scored 14 NHL career game-winning goals, certainly agrees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cIt doesn\u2019t matter how old you are or what you do, expectations will always be there,\u201d said Byron. \u201cFocusing on the things you can control is a big key. Having faith you can achieve what you set out to do can be a big motivator.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Learning to cope with stress, pressure and expectations in everyday life can be tough. It\u2019s important to take time out for you by practicing self-acceptance<\/a> and self-care<\/a>. You can talk to a parent\/caregiver, friend or teacher for support. Kids Help Phone\u2019s counsellors are available 24\/7 at 1-800-668-6868<\/a>, too.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n