If you’ve been considering signing up for competitive gaming tournaments you really should just go for it. Of course, there are some things that you should know that will make it easier to do this.
FUD: Fear, Uncertainty, and Doubt
When you’re hesitant to sign up for your first tournament it’s usually because you’re experiencing FUD.
More than likely you’re afraid of trying something new. Joining a tournament is very different than joining an online game from home. Not only because everyone gets to see everyone but because people will be watching you win or lose throughout the tournament. It’s important to realize these people don’t know who you are and probably won’t give you a second thought after the tournament ends.
You’re probably also uncertain of what to expect at your first competitive gaming tournament. Unfortunately, you’ll need to be able to manage the unpredictable and the uncontrollable. Doing so will say a lot about your capabilities – something that’ll improve with time.
The final thing you’re dealing with is doubting that you’re good enough. This is something that can hold you back for a long time until you’re willing to just face it and enter a tournament. It can also keep you from underestimating your opponents – something that you can use to your advantage. When you have just enough doubt you’ll be able to cautiously proceed with confidence since you’ve already taken the time to prepare for all the “what ifs.”
Keep Calm and Have Fun
Since this is your first competitive gaming tournament you probably won’t be the winner nor will you break some record so you won’t need to worry about signing autographs when everything is over. However, you will be able to learn a lot of new skills, meet some great new people, and soak up a wonderful new experience. In other words, you should think of this as training for the tournaments you’ll enter in the future. Since now you know what to expect every tournament in the future will provide you with an opportunity to fine-tune your competitive skills.
So, if you enjoy competitive gaming you’ll really enjoy competing in your first tournament. You may even discover that this is something you’ll want to do again in the future. Remember this day by taking some pictures so you have a keepsake then head home and look for more tournaments that you can sign up for.
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