10 life changes YOU need to make to become a pro gamer (outside of gaming)

Okay, so you're a pretty good gamer. Your KD is more than just positive. You’ve won a couple of tourneys. Heck, all your friends know you're the best in the squad. Let's be honest, you’re not a gamer, you’re a competitor. You don’t just game to “unwind” or to “hang out”. No, when you turn on the game it's because you want to WIN.

Here's the thing, these days there are thousands of people who are “great” at video games. The Hundreds of thousands of dollars to be made in esports competitions have attracted all sorts of fierce opponents. You may be good but if you want to compete at the highest level you need to be more than just a good gamer, you need to be a professional competitor.   

It's time to start thinking like any other professional athlete. We all know competitive video gameplay requires skill, strategy, and quick reflexes. But to be a high-level esports competitor also requires physical and mental endurance. To perform at your best, it's important to adopt healthy lifestyle habits that will help you stay sharp and focused. So here are the top 10 lifestyle habits that can help improve your competitive gameplay.

Get enough sleep:

Sleep is essential for both physical and mental recovery. During sleep, the body is able to repair and regenerate tissues, build bone and muscle, and strengthen the immune system. At the same time, the brain is able to consolidate memories and process information from the day. Without sufficient sleep, the body and mind are unable to function at their best, leading to decreased performance and increased risk of health problems. Therefore, it is important to prioritize sleep and aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night to ensure proper physical and mental recovery.

Eat a healthy diet:

A well-balanced diet can help improve your energy levels and cognitive function. Adequate nutrition is essential for the body to function properly, and a diet that is rich in nutrients can help boost energy levels and improve physical performance. In addition, certain nutrients, such as omega-3 fatty acids, have been linked to improved brain function and cognitive performance. On the other hand, a diet that is lacking in nutrients or high in unhealthy foods can lead to decreased energy and impaired cognitive function. Therefore, it is important to consume a varied diet that includes a balance of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, proteins, and healthy fats to support optimal energy levels and cognitive function.

Stay hydrated:

Dehydration can lead to fatigue and impaired cognitive function. The human body relies on water to function properly, and even mild dehydration can have negative effects on the body and brain. When the body is dehydrated, blood volume decreases, which can lead to fatigue and decreased physical performance. In addition, dehydration can also impair cognitive function, leading to decreased attention, memory, and decision-making abilities. Therefore, staying hydrated by regularly consuming water and other fluids is important to maintain optimal physical and cognitive function. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially during gaming sessions.

Exercise regularly:

Regular exercise can improve physical endurance, reduce stress, and boost brain function. Physical activity has been shown to improve cardiovascular fitness, muscle strength, and flexibility, which can lead to increased physical endurance. In addition, exercise has been shown to reduce stress and improve mental health by releasing endorphins and other feel-good chemicals in the brain. Regular exercise has also been linked to improved cognitive function, including enhanced memory, learning, and decision-making abilities. Therefore, incorporating regular exercise into your routine can have numerous benefits for both physical and mental well-being.

Take breaks:

Continuous gaming can lead to mental fatigue and decreased performance. Prolonged mental activity, such as gaming, can lead to cognitive fatigue, which is characterized by decreased attention, motivation, and decision-making abilities. In addition, continuous gaming can also lead to physical fatigue, as it requires sustained muscle activity and can lead to poor posture and eyestrain. Both cognitive and physical fatigue can lead to decreased performance and impaired judgment. Therefore, taking regular breaks and engaging in activities that allow the mind and body to rest and recover is important.

Practice mindfulness:

Mindfulness techniques, such as deep breathing and meditation, can help improve focus and reduce stress. Mindfulness is the practice of bringing one's attention to the present moment and has been shown to have numerous benefits for mental health and well-being. Studies have shown that mindfulness techniques, such as deep breathing and meditation, can improve attention and focus by reducing the mind's tendency to wander. In addition, mindfulness practices have been shown to reduce stress and improve emotional regulation. Incorporating mindfulness techniques into your daily routine can help improve focus and reduce stress, leading to better overall well-being.

Use ergonomic equipment:

Ergonomic equipment, such as comfortable chairs and properly designed mice, can help reduce fatigue and improve comfort during long gaming sessions. This is because such equipment is designed to support the body in a neutral posture, which helps to reduce muscle strain and discomfort. For example, using a chair with proper lumbar support can help reduce strain on the lower back, while using a mouse with a proper grip can help reduce strain on the wrist and hand. By using ergonomic equipment, gamers can reduce their risk of developing musculoskeletal disorders and experience increased comfort and productivity.

Stay organized:

Having a cluttered space can lead to distractions and reduced focus. Studies have shown that physical clutter can lead to increased stress and decreased productivity, as it can make it difficult to focus and make decisions. A cluttered space can also lead to decreased motivation and increased procrastination. On the other hand, a clean and organized environment has been linked to improved focus and productivity. Therefore, it is important to keep your gaming area clean and organized to help improve your gameplay and overall focus.

Manage stress:

High levels of stress can impair cognitive function and lead to decreased performance. Stress activates the body's "fight or flight" response, which can interfere with cognitive processes such as attention, memory, and decision-making. Chronic stress has also been linked to negative effects on brain structure and function, including changes in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. These changes can lead to decreased cognitive function and impaired performance. Therefore, it is important to manage stress in order to maintain optimal cognitive function and performance.

Take time to relax:

It's important to take time to relax and have fun outside of gaming. This can help improve your overall well-being and improve your performance when you do play.

By incorporating these lifestyle habits into your routine, you can improve your competitive video gameplay and perform at your best. Remember to listen to your body and make adjustments as needed to ensure you're at your best both physically and mentally. GG EZ