How Training With Lionel Messi Transformed My Mindset
The Living in the Zone Podcast Welcomes Inter Miami Soccer Star Lawson Sunderland
This week on Living in the Zone, we’re joined by Lawson Sunderland, a rising star of Inter Miami, a 22-year-old midfielder shaping the future of American soccer playing alongside legends like Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez. In this episode, Lawson shares what it’s like to step onto the pitch with some of the world’s greatest players and how he has harnessed the power of the S.C.O.R.E.® System to elevate his mental game, manage pressure, and stay focused on his long-term goals.
We’ll explore how Lawson has applied the S.C.O.R.E.® principles—Self-discipline, Concentration, Optimism, Relaxation, and Enjoyment—not only on the soccer field but also in his personal life. His story is one of growth, confidence, and balance, making him a powerful example of living in the Zone both on and off the pitch.
Playing with Legends: Finding His Place Among American Soccer’s Greats
When you’re playing alongside names like Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez, it’s easy to feel the weight of expectations. For Lawson Sunderland, stepping onto the field with such iconic players was both a dream come true and a significant challenge. “The pressure is intense,” Lawson admits. “You feel as if every move is scrutinized, and the bar is set so high.”
Yet, it was the application of the S.C.O.R.E.® System that gave Lawson the confidence to handle this unique situation. Lawson knew he had to find a way to manage his thoughts and rise to the occasion, and not let the pressure overwhelm him. “The S.C.O.R.E.® System has been a game-changer for me. It’s taught me how to get into the Zone, stay there, and perform at my best, no matter who’s on the field with me.”
Lawson specifically credits the Self-discipline and Concentration elements of the system for his growth. “Self-discipline is everything. It’s not just about showing up for practice or hitting the gym; it’s about the little decisions you make every day. When I’m training with Messi and Suarez, I realize how disciplined they are with everything they do—every touch, every pass, every movement is intentional. That’s what I’m learning.” Lawson has learned the value in having a well-defined blueprint for every training session and match. He has clear objectives for what he wants to accomplish that specific day.
For Concentration, Lawson shares how important it is to focus on the present moment. “When you’re on the field with players of that caliber, the game moves faster, and you have to stay locked in. The S.C.O.R.E.® System helped me sharpen my concentration and block out distractions, so I could just focus on my role and what I can control.”
The Role of Confidence: Building It from Within
Confidence can be elusive for any athlete, especially a young player finding his way in the professional ranks. “I struggled with self-doubt early on,” Lawson admits. “But the S.C.O.R.E.® System changed that for me. It taught me how to develop confidence not based on outcomes, but based on my preparation and mindset.”
Lawson also credits Optimism, another cornerstone of the S.C.O.R.E.® System, for helping him stay positive through the inevitable challenges that come with being a professional athlete. “There are always ups and downs, injuries, bad games, or criticism from the media. But I’ve learned to stay optimistic and trust the process. My optimism isn’t blind faith—it’s grounded in the belief that as long as I keep working, good things will come.”
One of the key tools Lawson relies on is visualization, an integral part of the S.C.O.R.E.® System. Lawson says he uses visualization to dress-rehearse every game to mentally prepare for his performances. “I close my eyes, and I see myself making that perfect pass, winning that tackle, or scoring that goal. It calms my nerves and fills me with confidence before I even step onto the field.”
Living in the Zone Off the Field: Finding Balance
While Lawson’s dedication to soccer is clear, he emphasizes the importance of balance in his life. It can be easy to get caught up in soccer 24/7, but Lawson has realized that what he does off the field is just as important to his performance on it. He is a great son, a brother, a friend and all of these other arenas make him the awesome individual that he is.
Lawson speaks about how Relaxation and Enjoyment, principles of the S.C.O.R.E.® System have helped him maintain that balance. “For a long time, I thought relaxation meant doing nothing, but now I see it as active recovery. It’s about finding ways to recharge my mind and body so I can give 100% when it’s time to compete.” Spending time with loved ones, family and friends off the field is one way Lawson boosts the relaxation levels and allows himself to detach from his soccer arena.
Lawson also makes time for the things that bring him joy, whether it’s playing video games with friends or taking a walk in nature. “I’ve learned to prioritize Enjoyment—both in soccer and in life. If I’m not having fun, I’m not performing at my best. Enjoyment fuels everything for me.”
The Influence of Mentors: Learning from the Best
Playing with Messi and Suarez isn’t just a masterclass in technical ability; it’s also an opportunity for Lawson to learn from two of the greatest minds in the game. “They’re not just physically gifted—they’re mentally sharp,” Lawson says. “I watch how they approach the game, how they handle pressure, and how they bounce back from mistakes. It’s been an incredible learning experience.”
One of the most important lessons Lawson has learned from his mentors is the art of Relaxation under pressure. “Messi, for example, never seems rattled. He plays with such calm and composure, even in the biggest moments. I’ve tried to model that in my own game—staying relaxed, trusting my training, and not letting the moment overwhelm me.”
The S.C.O.R.E.® System has provided Lawson with the tools to do just that. “The ability to relax, especially when the stakes are high, is something I’ve had to work on. But now, I feel like I’m able to stay calm and confident, even in the most intense situations.”
Staying Future-Focused: What’s Next for Lawson
As a young player with a bright future ahead, Lawson is fully aware that his journey is just beginning. “I’m always thinking about what’s next—how I can improve, how I can take my game to the next level. But I also try to stay grounded in the present. That’s where the Concentration and Self-discipline aspects of S.C.O.R.E.® really come into play.”
Lawson’s goals for the future aren’t just about personal accolades; he’s focused on helping his team succeed and continuing to grow as a player and a person. “Playing with Messi and Suarez has shown me what’s possible, and I’m motivated to keep pushing myself. But at the same time, I know it’s a process. The S.C.O.R.E.® System has taught me to trust that process and to stay patient.”
The S.C.O.R.E.® System: A Blueprint for Success
Lawson Sunderland’s journey is a testament to the power of the S.C.O.R.E.® System. Whether it’s on the field, where he’s honing his skills as a midfielder for Inter Miami, or off the field, where he’s building balance and resilience in his personal life, the principles of Self-discipline, Concentration, Optimism, Relaxation, and Enjoyment have helped him reach new heights.
As Lawson continues to rise through the ranks of professional soccer, his story serves as an inspiring reminder that peak performance isn’t just about talent—it’s about mindset. The S.C.O.R.E.® System provides a clear, actionable framework for athletes, business professionals, and anyone looking to reach their full potential. It’s about mastering the mental game, staying focused on the present, and enjoying the journey along the way.
In the words of Lawson himself, “The Zone is where everything comes together—your preparation, your focus, your confidence. And with the S.C.O.R.E.® System, I’ve learned how to get there and stay there.”
Be sure to catch this week’s episode of Living in the Zone to hear more about Lawson Sunderland’s incredible journey and learn how the S.C.O.R.E.® System can help you perform at your best, no matter what arena you’re competing in.