#145 Mental Strategies for Fighting Anxiety and Maximizing Performance with Shannon Thompson

Andrea is joined by esteemed guest Shannon Thompson, a mental performance consultant and expert in psychological performance training. Together, they dive deep into the mental aspects of running, offering invaluable insights and practical strategies to enhance your performance and manage anxiety. Discover the power of mantras and phrases as Andrea and Shannon discuss their personal favorites for overcoming challenges during races and training. Learn how positive self-talk can fuel your motivation, boost your confidence, and push you beyond your limits. Mental performance training is a crucial component of success in running, and they shed light on its importance and practical applications. From managing performance anxiety to modulating extreme nervousness, they share techniques and exercises that will help you optimize your mental state and perform at your best. Gain valuable advice for tackling different stages of long-distance races, overcoming workout-related anxieties, and navigating the emotional and mental impacts of physical injuries. Get ready to unlock your mental potential and take your running to new heights!

Shannon's athletic background began in the equestrian sport of Three Day Eventing. She was fortunate enough to compete nationally and internationally successfully for more than 20 years and she also coached riders of all ages and levels during this time. Since retiring from equestrian sport she developed a passion for running. She's raced the 800m through to ultra trail events and almost everything in between. Her interest regarding the power of the mind to impact an athlete’s performance and overall experience moved her to complete an undergraduate degree in psychology, and then a Masters in Applied Positive Psychology from the University of Pennsylvania. Positive psychology is the science of human flourishing and high achievement. Her work out of HYPO2 is offered to a wide range of clients, including elite, professional endurance athletes from around the world, and the Division I teams at Northern Arizona University. She draws upon empirical research, her own experience, and the arts to help each individual grow, perform and experience the opportunities within sport to the full. You can find her on her website or Instagram @shannonleighthompson!

The Subjective: what mantra/phrase do you use to get through races or training?

Chapters

• 0:00 - Intro
• 6:45 - The Subjective: what mantra/phrase do you use to get through races or training?
• 9:10 - What is mental performance training?
• 15:15 - Techniques for managing performance anxiety
• 24:54 - Strategies for modulating extreme nervousness
• 33:00 - Advice for getting through different stages of long distance races
• 37:15 - Managing anxiety surrounding workouts in training
• 43:23 - The effects of a physical injury on mental health
• 55:27 - Managing anxiety when returning to sport post-injury
• 59:40 - Cultivating personal identity outside of athletic pursuits
• 1:08:36 - Wrap-up

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