WHOOP Podcast Goal Setting, Life Transitions, and Decision Making with Neuroscientist Dr. Maya Shankar
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Sep 11, 2024 
Dr. Maya Shankar, a cognitive neuroscientist and former White House Senior Advisor, dives into her fascinating journey from aspiring violinist to behavioral scientist. She shares insights on navigating identities and the power of the 'fresh start effect' to instigate positive change. The conversation touches on overcoming setbacks in goal achievement, the role of small behavioral adjustments in public policy, and the importance of resilience through awe. Maya also highlights strategies for cementing new habits and making better decisions in life.
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Violinist to Neuroscientist
- Dr. Maya Shankar pursued a career as a concert violinist, studying under Itzhak Perlman.
- A hand injury derailed her plans, leading her to explore other fields.
Identity Foreclosure
- Dr. Shankar experienced "identity foreclosure," prematurely defining herself solely as a violinist.
- Losing the violin meant losing herself, highlighting the risk of tying identity to a single pursuit.
Identify Core Traits
- Identify the core traits of pursuits you love, not just the pursuits themselves.
- Attach your identity to those traits, allowing for flexibility and adaptation when circumstances change.
