Kwik Brain with Jim Kwik Manage High Pressure Like $500 Billion Asset Manager with Sébastien Page
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Jun 16, 2025 Sébastien Page, Chief Investment Officer at T. Rowe Price and author of 'The Psychology of Leadership', shares his insights on managing stress effectively while overseeing half a trillion dollars in assets. He reveals that peak performance thrives not in zero stress, but in the right balance tailored to the task. Understanding personal stress levels can prevent burnout and enhance productivity. Page also dives into neuroscience behind decision-making, offering practical techniques like wardrobe automation and breathing exercises to manage high-stakes pressure.
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Career Near-Death from Goal Blindness
- Early in his career, Sébastien experienced goal-induced blindness, leading to severe overwork and near death.
- Recognizing this taught him the importance of mindfulness and rest to avoid burnout.
Stress Optimizes Performance
- Optimal performance happens not at zero stress but at an individual-specific point on the Yerkes-Dodson curve.
- Different tasks require different levels of stress to reach peak performance depending on complexity and physical demand.
Manage Stress with Exercise and Breathing
- Exercise daily including recovery days to lower baseline stress levels.
- Use breathing techniques like 4x4 breathing before high-pressure events to calm your mind.
