If you’ve ever approached a bridge game with the wrong mindset (or thinking that you might lose), you’ll notice the change in your playing. Mindset is one of the most important things when preparing for the game ahead – and if yours isn’t right, it might tip the scales in the direction of a losing game on your partnership.

What do you do to get yourself in the mood for a winning game? 

Everyone has something, whether you’re an athlete about to head out on the field or preparing to take on an online bridge game from home. 

Here’s a look at a few techniques you can use to achieve the winning mindset before heading to the tables.

#1: The Movie (and OST)  

Movies evoke certain feelings – that’s why we watch them. 

This can have useful applications when you’re preparing for a big event and could use that little boost. The feeling you get when you’ve seen a great movie with the protagonist achieving the winning result? It can be similar to the feeling of walking away from a won game. 

If there’s a movie that strikes you as inspirational, take the time to watch it or look up the movie’s soundtrack while playing the game.

#2: The Mantra

Mantras and sayings aren’t just things that originate from self-help books. Sometimes, they’re useful.

Repetitive mantras have a point – and usually, it’s to center and focus the mind. Some people use them in daily meditational practice, while others might just take a look and the mirror and repeat a few words. (If you need it to be creepier to have the right effect, try candles, mirrors and moonlight.) 

If you have a mantra, saying or list of bridge maxims that you find useful, go through these before moving to the tables.

#3: The Playlist

Not everyone picks their inspirational songs out of movies. There are very good reasons to come up with your own playlists – and online bridge is one of them. 

Playlists can help players to get in the right mood: With the use of a few online tools, you can include songs that you’ve long forgotten about that strike up the correct emotions.

Come on, what are your “good feeling” songs? 

If they’re embarrassing, use headphones.

#4: The Atmosphere

Now, let’s talk about atmosphere. 

There’s no point in “insisting” on the right atmosphere before proceeding with your game. Simply, this is “a good excuse” that is often used when people are working from home – or trying to come up with ideas for a book – that only means you’re waiting for something that’s not going to happen.

Instead, create your ideal atmosphere with little things. Even when the rest of your environment is a total nightmare where you can find no focus, there’s often a way to achieve a “winning mindset” and a great atmosphere with a combination of smaller elements that can make you feel better in the moment. Playlists, a comfortable couch, a warm cocoa. Whatever tickles your fancy.

#5: The Camouflage

People dress up for good reason – and animals throw vibrant, often colorful displays at certain times of the year for the same reason: It’s in our nature to do it, and there’s nothing wrong with changing up your colors to make you feel better.

Let’s call it “The Camouflage” aspect of your play.

Even when playing bridge online (and at home), it helps to wear something that fits your idea of the winning mindset. Some might dress up, others might dress down; that’s entirely up to you.