Using a power phrase to silence self-doubt under pressure

Executive overview

Self-doubt and distraction erode performance at critical moments. A power phrase — a short, personalised statement repeated internally — blocks negative noise and redirects focus to what matters.

Olympic gold medalist Libby Trickett developed her first power phrase at 18, while competing sick at her first world championships. The technique transfers directly from elite sport to everyday life.

A simple repeated phrase can replace inner noise with a single, stabilising thought.

Building a power phrase

• Start with what you need to believe in the moment, not what sounds impressive
• Trickett's original phrase: "I'm strong, I'm fit, I'm healthy, therefore I'm fast"
• It was created with her coach in response to a specific threat — managing asthma at a major competition
• Over time, she extended it: "No doubts, no regrets, I'm just here to have fun"
• After retiring from swimming, she created a new phrase for life beyond sport
• Her current phrase: "I am light with my being and I'm intentional with my energy"

Why it works

• Gives the mind a single positive thought to anchor to when overwhelmed
• Blocks intrusive, repetitive negative thinking
• Lifts mood and restores focus on immediate priorities
• Phrases evolve — update yours when your context or challenges change