Beat performance anxiety with these quick tips
Summary
In this Life Kit episode, host Mary El-Segarra interviews performance psychologist Cindra Campoff on managing performance anxiety and building confidence. They discuss practical tools like the "Truth Meter" to challenge negative thoughts, the "Learn, Burn, Return" method for moving past mistakes, and using pre-planned "power phrases" to stay focused. Campoff shares personal stories from her marathon and TED Talk to illustrate how self-talk and intentional mindset shifts can transform high-stakes moments.
Topics discussed
Intro: Host's track anxiety and the gold/silver/bronze goal framework
Guest intro: Cindra Campoff and types of performance anxiety
Defining confidence as a decision and episode overview
Pre-performance tool: The Truth Meter for negative thoughts
At the starting line: Using breath to stay present
During performance: Learn, Burn, Return method for mistakes
Power Phrases: Cindra's marathon story and intentional self-talk
PCR: Pause, Consider, Respond to manage frustration
Post-performance: Reflecting on wins and the TED talk story
Recap of key takeaways and show outro
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