Distractions; we all have heard stories of how distraction “x” or distraction “y” caused a shooter to lose one or more targets and negatively impact their score. The more conversation on the distraction, the more influential it becomes on your game – and typically in a negative way. A general definition of a distraction is “something that prevents someone from giving their full attention to something else” and for a skeet shooter, that something else is our game plan, shot routine, our process for shooting a target, station and a round of skeet.
In skeet shooting, distractions are inevitable. Some you can plan ahead to handle, while others can only be dealt with when they occur. Three common types of distractions are the field, weather and people. Field distractions include the background and general markers (or lack thereof) on the field. Weather distractions include excessive heat or cold, rain, wind and for those outside of Florida – snow. People distractions include other shooters on an unfamiliar squad, the referee and some within the audience that may be observing.
We cannot control distractions, but we can control how we react to the distractions. So how do we handle ourselves when distractions occur? We observe and acknowledge the distraction, make our adjustments as necessary and get on with our shot routine. Period. Anything more, especially becoming irritated, only fuels the degree to which the distraction negatively impacts our shooting. In addition, any further conversation about the distraction should be framed from a positive and constructive position with the shooter feeling in control with the ability to make one or more adjustments. Handling the distraction in this manner and limiting our reaction to it diffuses the distraction and minimizes its impact on our game. Read article here.
By Russ Naples
Previous articles in series:
Skeet Shooting Fundamentals, April 2018
A Closer Look At Shot Routine, May 2018
Tips For A Good Start, June 2018