DAYNE Zorko says a simple change of mindset dug him out of his early-season blues with a blistering performance against Collingwood on Sunday.

Fresh off his first All Australian season, the dynamic Brisbane midfielder had been in a slump to start 2018.

Averaging just 15 disposals through the first six rounds, Zorko was being blanketed by opposition taggers, and even when he wasn't, was still having trouble influencing matches.

In the week leading up to his 34-disposal, 10-tackle, four-goal outburst against the Magpies, Zorko received some words of wisdom from those in the know.

He spoke with Lions Brownlow medalist Simon Black, along with two players organised by coach Chris Fagan – one believed to be Hawthorn Brownlow medalist Shane Crawford – who simplified things for the 29-year-old.

"It was good for me personally to know really good players in the past have come under the same scrutiny and faced the same difficulties," Zorko told AFL.com.au.

"I felt a bit discouraged by it all happening and they reaffirmed to me it was important to bring your effort no matter what and to treat it (being tagged) as a compliment.

"I changed my mindset and it took some pressure off my shoulders."

Zorko had been particularly ineffective against Gold Coast and Greater Western Sydney in the previous fortnight, registering just 10 touches against each opponent, and conceded he was down on confidence. 

"You certainly question whether you still have it, you're not human if you don’t," he said.

"But I'd been training really well and speaking to the past players reassured me to have the confidence that I have to work harder and smarter.

"I never felt like I was out of form, but you have those doubts."

WATCH: The amazing Zorko back to his best

Zorko started against Collingwood by following prolific ball-winner Adam Treloar, before releasing his own run-with role to roam free.

He said following Treloar not only took him to the ball but got him thinking defensively, which helped the other parts of his game.

The Lions vice-captain became more and more influential in the forward 50 as the game wore on, and said the development of youngsters Hugh McCluggage, Jarrod Berry and Cam Rayner in the midfield gave him the confidence to play forward.

"I'll prepare for every match as though I'm being tagged now."