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Modern Wisdom

#897 - Steve Magness - How Nervous People Can Perform Under Pressure

Feb 1, 2025
In this discussion, Steve Magness, a performance coach and sports scientist, dives into the challenges of performing under pressure. He explains how societal expectations can heighten anxiety and impact performance. Magness offers practical tips for reshaping mindset and viewing failure as a stepping stone to resilience. He underscores the importance of social connections for emotional regulation and advocates for redefining success by appreciating personal growth over outcomes. Insights on overcoming perfectionism round out this engaging conversation.
01:10:56

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The episode highlights how identity shape performance, as success raises expectations that can lead to heightened anxiety and pressure.
  • Social connections and support networks are crucial for mitigating performance-related stress, helping individuals manage challenges more effectively.

Deep dives

The Inner Game of Elite Performers

Many talented individuals struggle to actualize their potential due to challenges with their inner game. This episode highlights how some athletes, despite immense talent, often hinder themselves through anxiety and performance pressure. The discussion reveals that it is not always a lack of ability that keeps someone from success but rather the mental barriers that prevent them from expressing their gifts. This phenomenon is often seen in performers who excelled initially but face heightened expectations, causing them to choke under pressure.

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