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Hodgson: Keeping a positive mindset is a real skill

21 Jan 2021

Crystal Palace manager speaks about how he is looking after his mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic

Roy Hodgson believes it is a skill for people to remain positive in difficult circumstances such as the COVID-19 pandemic, and that it can be learned.

With the United Kingdom in another period of lockdown, the Crystal Palace manager is aware of the difficulties many people will be facing. But he believes it is possible to develop a sense of mental fortitude.

"Being positive is a state of mind of course," Hodgson said.

"It's very easy for people to say, 'You've got to stay positive, you've got to be positive and you've got to think positive.'

"But unfortunately, your mind and your brain don't always do the things that you want them to do.

"It's a real skill actually. You know these people do have that ability to produce that positive mindset. It's a skill very often they've learned."

Entertainment at home

Hodgson was speaking as part of a series of special videos featuring Premier League players and managers discussing the importance of mental health.

And the 73-year-old has revealed some of the ways he has kept himself occupied and entertained when he is at home.

"There's always books," he said. "Luckily I did buy four or five just before the shops shut down. I'm on the last one of those but they've certainly kept me going.

"Music, that's always useful. I've got quite an eclectic taste as well, so I can vary between my soul and Motown and my classical music, depending on my mood."

Fans can get more information on maintaining positive mental health from the Premier League's #StayWell hub, including tips and advice from experts and players, as well as links to NHS resources and Public Health England's "Every Mind Matters" campaign.