Nervousness is a normal part of competition. Whether it shows up as a racing heart, tight muscles, or wandering thoughts, pressure affects everyone—from new shooters to Olympic-level athletes. In this episode of Making Shooters Better, host Terry Vaughan talks with Gabby Franco about how to recognize self-doubt, shift perspective, and train the mind just like any other skill.

Gabby draws from her experience as an Olympic shooter and coach to explain why mental resilience is not about eliminating nerves, but learning how to work with them safely and productively.


Understanding Where Self-Doubt Comes From

Self-doubt often has less to do with skill and more to do with expectations. Gabby explains how comparison, external pressure, and the belief that a single outcome defines success can amplify nerves during competition.

Common sources of self-doubt include: 

  • Comparing your performance to others
  • Believing winning or losing defines your value
  • Carrying pressure from past results
  • Letting outside opinions influence focus

When shooters understand that these thoughts are normal, they can start responding instead of reacting.

Reframing Success and Failure

One of the biggest mindset shifts Gabby shares is redefining what success really means. Competition results are important, but they are not a measure of personal worth.

By viewing each match as one data point rather than a final judgment, shooters can: 

  • Reduce performance anxiety
  • Stay focused on the process
  • Learn more effectively from setbacks
  • Maintain confidence over time

This perspective helps keep pressure in check and supports long-term growth.

Mental Skills That Support Performance

Gabby emphasizes that mental skills require consistent practice, just like physical fundamentals. Small, repeatable habits can make a big difference under pressure.

Helpful mental training tools include: 

  • Mindfulness or quiet reflection to build awareness
  • Honest evaluation of preparation instead of unrealistic expectations
  • Visualization paired with positive reframing
  • Simple breathing techniques to regulate stress

These skills can be practiced during dry fire, live fire, and daily routines, reinforcing safe and responsible training habits.

The Role of Support and Coaching

Another key theme in the conversation is the importance of communication and support. Gabby explains that effective coaching depends on understanding what the shooter is experiencing internally, not just what appears on the target.

Sharing feedback about: 

  • Physical sensations
  • Emotional responses
  • Thought patterns

These allow coaches and shooters to work together more effectively and make meaningful adjustments.

Watch the Full Conversation

This episode of Making Shooters Better offers practical insight for anyone who has felt pressure affect their performance. Gabby Franco’s perspective helps shooters understand that nerves are not a weakness, but a signal that can be managed with the right tools and mindset.

Watch the full video to hear Gabby and Terry dive deeper into mental resilience, self-acceptance, and strategies you can apply in training and competition. The conversation provides context, real-world examples, and encouragement for shooters at every level.

Follow Gabby Franco

Gabby Franco continues to work with shooters and performers to improve mental performance and confidence. Following her work is a great way to keep learning about mindset, preparation, and sustainable performance habits that support both competition and everyday life.

Website: www.gabbyfranco.com
Instagram and Twitter: @GabbyFrancoTS4
YouTube and LinkedIn: Gabby Franco

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