

Professor Steve Peters; The Chimp Paradox, Imposter Syndrome and Antecedents of Human Performance
Jul 31, 2024
Professor Steve Peters, a psychiatrist known for his insightful work in mental health, discusses his Chimp Model, which helps explain human behavior under stress. He dives into the details of imposter syndrome, revealing its implications for individuals in high-pressure situations. The conversation also covers emotional intelligence's role in team dynamics and performance, illustrating how shared values foster success in both corporate and sports environments. Peters emphasizes mental strategies to navigate challenges and enhance personal growth.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Accidental Entry into Elite Sport
- Steve Peters accidentally became involved in elite sports after helping a mentally troubled athlete in British Cycling.
- This led to working with multiple Olympic sports teams and renowned athletes like Chris Hoy.
The Chimp vs Human Brain Model
- The brain has a primitive emotional system called the 'chimp' and a rational system called the 'human'.
- The chimp often hijacks decision-making, creating internal conflict between emotion and logic.
Managing Imposter Syndrome Effectively
- When experiencing imposter syndrome, treat it as your brain's suggestion to check your suitability.
- Use rational thought to assess your skills or consider learning, not to panic about being a fraud.