The High Performance Podcast John Legend: Why He Chose an 'Audacious' Name And How It Changed Him
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Dec 10, 2025 
John Legend, the iconic Grammy, Oscar, Emmy, and Tony winner, shares his journey from a management consultant to a global music sensation. He reveals how adopting the name 'Legend' transformed his identity and performance standards. The discussion dives into fascinating psychological concepts like the Proteus Effect and the Batman Effect, showcasing how names can influence ambition and behavior. Legend emphasizes the impact of aspirational identities and setting personal standards that drive growth, making the case that our names are powerful catalysts for change.
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Nickname Became A Self-Fulfilling Destiny
- John Legend's nickname 'the legend' started as a friend's alter ego and gradually became his stage name.
- He decided to adopt it as a bet on himself and a public statement of intent to deliver work worthy of the name.
Identity Priming Raises Your Standards
- Damian Hughes explains identity priming: adopting a new identity raises the bar for your behaviour.
- John saw the name as an avatar that demanded higher standards long before external success arrived.
Avatars Shape Real-World Behaviour
- The Proteus effect shows virtual avatars change real-world behaviour after a brief experience.
- Taller, attractive avatars increased assertiveness and negotiation even after the headset came off.
