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otherwise hunt.
Sometimes taking a day off to recharge can be just what you need to be more focused during your next
hunt. However, if it becomes a habit, and you skip too many hunts, you’re missing out on potential
opportunities.
There are only so many days before the season is over, take advantage of as many as possible and grind
through a hunt or two. Forcing yourself to hunt that extra day, when the going gets tough, might give
you the edge you need.
Self Confidence
Having confidence in yourself can completely change a hunt. Think through a hunt before heading out
to the woods and make sure you’re as prepared and as confident as possible. Take some practice shots
with your hunting clothes on to make sure your string won’t slap your coat. Know your effective range
so you can be completely confident in your ability to make the shot. Practice shooting from some of the
awkward angles you could have in a tree stand or blind. Second guessing yourself or having self-doubt
won’t help you at all once you’re in the stand.
If the deer you’re after appears, avoid self-defeating thoughts, and have confidence in yourself
throughout the entire process. Rather than thinking I hope I make a good shot, or don’t screw this up,
go through all the mental checks you need to make an accurate shot and block everything else out.
One way to block out all of the distracting thoughts you’ll have once your mind starts racing, is by
staying absolutely focused on your target. Once you’ve decided to shoot a particular deer and are