As game masters, we often strive for control—crafting intricate plots, anticipating player decisions, and steering the game towards planned outcomes. But what if we could let go of that conscious control and trust our subconscious instead? This is the lesson at the heart of The Inner Game of Tennis by Timothy Gallwey, a book that teaches tennis players to improve by quieting their critical inner voice and trusting their subconscious. While Gallwey’s focus is on tennis, his insights apply surprisingly well to running RPGs. By empowering our subconscious “Self 2” and reducing interference from the critical “Self 1,” we can run games more fluidly and responsively, creating a better experience for everyone at the table.
Understanding Self 1 and Self 2
Gallwey describes two “selves” at work in any activity. Self 1 is the verbal, critical, and control-focused voice in our heads, often the source of doubt and overcorrection. Self 2, on the other hand, is non-verbal and intuitive, handling the mechanics of action without conscious thought.
In tennis, Self 1 might say, “Why can’t you hit the ball right?” while Self 2 already knows how to swing the racket. Gallwey’s advice: trust Self 2 and quiet Self 1.
As GMs, we experience a similar dynamic. Self 1 plans, critiques, and judges our performance. Self 2, however, can respond to the unfolding game with creativity and adaptability—if we let it. Over-relying on Self 1 can hinder spontaneity, while trusting Self 2 can lead to adaptable, rewarding GMing.
Empowering Self 2 in Game Mastering
Preparation (Self 1) vs. Play (Self 2)
Preparation is the domain of Self 1, where we plan encounters, create NPCs, and map out storylines. During play, however, Self 2 shines. It reacts to player choices, adapts narratives, and picks up on subtle table dynamics. Problems arise when Self 1 tries to maintain control during play: “I prepped this combat encounter; they must fight!” By trusting Self 2, we can adapt to player decisions and let the story unfold by itself.
Non-Judgmental Observation
One of Gallwey’s key techniques is observing without judgment. In GMing, this means focusing on what is happening rather than what “should” happen. Ask yourself:
- What are players doing now? (e.g., planning, roleplaying, rolling dice).
- Where are characters, and what are their goals?
- What motivates NPCs/monsters?
This approach reduces Self 1’s interference and allows Self 2 to process information intuitively. By observing non-judgmentally, you’ll notice subtle cues—like shifts in player engagement or table atmosphere—and adjust dynamically without conscious control.
Focus on Goals
Set overarching goals for your game and let Self 2 handle the details. For example, if your goal is to make player choices matter more, fix that in your mind but don’t force outcomes. Instead, ask yourself: “How does this current player choice impact the narrative?” By fixing the goal in our mind at the outset, then observing non-judgementally and trusting Self 2, we’ll subconsciously find ways to achieve our goals.
Practical Steps for the Inner Game of RPGs
Quieting Self 1
- During play, listen non-judgmentally to players’ actions and focus on the breath to stay bring attention to the present moment.
- When intrusive judgments arise, acknowledge them but gently redirect your focus to the present moment.
Shifting Perspective
- See the game as something that unfolds on its own, rather than something you must control tightly. We’re just playing along!
Preparing for Self 2
- Build flexible frameworks, like loose scene outlines instead of rigid scripts.
- Craft tools for improvisation, such as random tables and modular ideas.
Conclusion
Gallwey’s The Inner Game of Tennis offers a powerful framework for GMs: observe without judgment, trust your instincts, and let go of control. By empowering Self 2 and quieting Self 1, we can run games more responsively and fluidly, enhancing the experience for both us and our players. Trust your subconscious—the game will unfold as it’s meant to, often in ways you couldn’t have consciously planned.
