Competition is on an ever increase within the world of performance. Performers are relentlessly working to get an edge over their competition. However, this comes at a cost: increased pressure. An athlete, performing artist, business worker, soldier, politician, doctor, etc. can only take so much until their mental efforts take a toll and decision making will no longer be efficient, translating into game losses, lack of improvement/productivity, lack of credibility or, at worse, even resulting in fatal errors. Reaching success, and maintaining it, all boils down to a performer’s mental game. It’s the performer’s responsibility to manage pre-performance anxiety, regulate emotions, rebound from mistakes, adapt and adjust to factors that influence the performance beyond their control, hence giving them an edge. These are some of the skills that are learned and developed through meeting with a performance, sport and exercise psychologist and why having one on your team is essential for optimal performance.
