Unexplainable

The Yips

Mar 27, 2024

Discover the yips - when skilled individuals suddenly lose their abilities. Hear stories of baseball players struggling with this phenomenon and their inspiring journeys of redemption. Learn about the psychological toll, stigma, and ultimate triumph over mental roadblocks in performance.

27:52

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Quick takeaways

The yips can affect the most skilled individuals, leading to significant personal struggles and challenges in performing at their best.

Recent research suggests physical origins of the yips, such as focal dystonia, highlighting the complex relationship between brain control, learning, talent, and motor skills.

Deep dives

The Phenomenon of Losing Superpowers

When individuals at the peak of their profession suddenly lose their abilities, known as the yips, it can have a profound impact. Athletes like gymnast Simone Biles and baseball player Rick Ankiel have experienced this phenomenon. Despite being in top form, they find themselves unable to perform their best, leading to significant challenges and personal struggles.

Unforeseen Inability

00:35

Task-Specific Dystonia

00:28

Introduction

2min

The Phenomenon of the Yips in High-Level Performance

10min

A Baseball Pitcher's Struggle with the Yips and Unexpected Turn of Events

2min

Diverse Offerings: Password Management, Electric SUV, and Startup Banking

3min

Redemption through Transformation

10min

Exploring the Enigma of Learning and Talent through the Yips

4min

Think about the thing you’ve practiced more than anything else in the world. Maybe it’s painting. Or writing. Or playing the piano. Now imagine you wake up one day and you just can’t do it. You’re not sick. You’re not injured. But that one thing is impossible.

It’s called the yips, and even the most talented people in the world experience it. What could cause them to lose their superpowers? And is there anything they can do to get them back?

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