As you know, there are many ups and downs in a tennis match. We will refer to these as Peaks and Valleys. The Peaks are certainly the most fun. However, they are usually short-lived. The Valleys are the most unpleasant and can last a seemingly long time. One of the keys to success in a match is to maintain an "Equilibrium" - an average level of play somewhere between your "Peak & Valley" performances.

If you approach a match and expect to play great and win or in contrast you expect to play poorly and lose - you are setting yourself up for failure. Assuming that you can produce an average performance all the time will benefit you greatly. It is your average play that will win or lose a match. Ride the Peaks as long as you can. When falling off a Peak, try to go back to the equilibrium. When you are in a Valley - don't force yourself into making perfect plays. Try to get your game to equilibrium.

Remember, there are many ups and downs in a match. Your job is to stay in the match for the long haul. Always fall back on your equilibrium or average play.