The Keys to Keeping Your Cool on the Fields of Justice

Hey everyone, DJ Left Shark here. So I figured I would take some time to write a post to hopefully help some players who may be having a negative attitude in the game. This could be due to a variety of factors in or outside of the game itself, but most often we find out the reason is due to the language and attitude of the enemy or even our own teammates. **NOTE: **I am not saying I have never had that 'bad' game where I got angry, but over the many seasons I've played I have observed and practiced different things to improve my attitude in the game.

1. NOTICE THE MUTE BUTTON: Sometimes a teammate or enemy says something that gets right under your skin, and from there you spiral into the land of negativity. Don't let it happen! If you notice someone either on your team or the enemy is being 'toxic' or just saying things that bug you, just mute them. You're here to play the game and do the best you can, being distracted will affect your ability to give 100%. Also muting negative players improves your attitude. However, don't mute them and then fire back with insults - knowing that you can vent without rebuttal.
2. **ALL CHAT - YOUR CALL: **During season 4, I was getting so worked up over enemy teams saying things that upset me. I decided I would go to my settings and remove it. WHAT A DIFFERENCE! I was able to focus on playing the game and communicating with JUST MY TEAM, rather than trying to decipher what was being said in all chat vs within my own team. For me this has changed how I play the game, and as a little bonus, I've gotten honored more post - game [slayer-jinx-wink] ****
3. HOLD YOURSELF ACCOUNTABLE: Be aware of your own language during the game. I'm not saying you shouldn't say a word all game and just focus on gameplay, but the communication tool is there to work with your team to accomplish the necessary objectives that will help you win the game. Honestly, you should be talking gameplay, not about how so and so is a bleep bleep bleep...etc. Be positive and supportive, because after all, you are a team.
4. TRUST IN RITO: Yes, there may be games where you get the troll or that very toxic player. Though with toxic players you can use your handy mute button (DO NOT ENTERTAIN TOXIC PLAYERS - its not worth it), someone intentionally feeding or chillin' poolside at the fountain is out of your control. I know it's a hard 20 or so minutes till you can surrender, but keep your cool, play as well as you can, and just report the behavior. That's all you can do, let RIOT take care of the rest.
5. **LEAGUE IS A GAME: **I know you've heard that a million times, but as the million and first time, please consider that. League is a free to play game that should be an avenue for you to relax or do something with some buddies. I know ranked is a little different because more is on the line, but please know what you're getting into when the stakes are higher. Games will have pressure, but again just utilize teamwork and do your best to take whatever measures you need to keep out the negativity. No need to be upset and toxic if you know you're being a team player and giving it your best.

I know there are plenty other things out there that you can do to stay focused and calm while playing League, so feel free to share in the comments! I have remained a loyal League player since season 2, and I want others to enjoy and love the game as much as I do!** **

Have a Good Weekend!