Jitters in such an adrenaline-fueled game like CS2 are completely normal, especially when you’re just starting your journey as a player. We’re all human, and even pro players often feel incredible pressure in important matches—no one wants to let their team down. But when your hands are shaking, and overcoming yourself feels nearly impossible, while your opponent, as if sensing it, starts pressuring your position even harder, what do you do?
In this article, we’ll go over tips that can truly help you find your key to staying calm and playing with a clear mind. Try applying them in tough moments—we’re confident that something will definitely work for you and help keep your brain sharp and steady.
1. Play more
The more you play, the more you find yourself in situations where you’re afraid to make a mistake or ruin the entire game. Over time, your brain will learn to handle adrenaline properly—you won’t feel like a helpless victim, scared to peek into your opponent’s crosshair. Instead, you’ll become a predator trapped in a cage, with only one way to survive—to strike first. Do it aggressively, but with precision.
From my own experience, having played over 6,000 hours, I can fully confirm everything said above. I’ll say it again—the more you play, the more your mindset shifts. You’re no longer a trapped victim; you think only about how to take down your opponent faster. And it all starts happening automatically.
2. Breathing techniques
Breathing techniques aren’t just some ritual—they’re a physical-level method that actually works. Let’s break down how this works from a physiological perspective.
When a large amount of adrenaline hits your system, you start breathing faster without even realizing it. You’d think that breathing more means more oxygen, but it actually works the opposite way. Rapid breathing causes CO₂ levels in your blood to drop too quickly, leading to blood vessel constriction and reduced oxygen flow to the brain. The result? Dizziness, shaky hands, and even more panic.
Proper breathing helps restore this balance—controlled inhales and exhales bring CO₂ levels back to normal, ensuring your brain gets enough oxygen, and the panic gradually fades.
3. Confidence in Yourself
Olofmeister once said that to become a CS champion, you need to have your life in order. And he was right. It’s no surprise that someone as self-assured—and maybe a little cocky—as s1mple achieved everything possible. But that’s just his path and personality type—your confidence might come from something completely different.
Physical and mental health are the foundation of success. Exercise, take care of your sleep schedule, and over time, you’ll see the results.
All these practices serve as a foundation, but you can also use whatever personally helps you stay focused and calm. Play more, stay sharp, and good luck!