How Social Factors Impact Your Performance
Team dynamics can make or break your performance. Poor team dynamics might leave you frustrated when selecting relay swimmers, leading to reduced effort because you didn't get your preferred role. When the team can't cooperate effectively, everyone's performance suffers.
Inclusion works as a major performance booster. Being selected for a relay team creates a sense of belonging that translates into maximum effort. You'll push harder because you know your teammates are counting on you.
Poor etiquette from opponents can throw you off your game. Seeing another relay team cheat by diving early might tempt you to do the same "to level the playing field" - but this usually backfires with disqualification.
The key social sub-factors to watch are communication, cooperation, relationships, role models, and mutual respect.
Remember: Your emotional response to social situations directly affects your physical performance.