STAN PFHP M1U3 P1 Francesco Dandekar & Dr Lisa Post
Introduction to Dr. Lisa Post
Clinical Associate Professor and Director of Sports Medicine and Psychiatry at Stanford University.
Pioneer of Stanford's Sports Psychology and Psychiatry program.
Developed resources and programs to support elite athletes and surgical residents.
Experience with High Performers
Worked 13 years as team psychologist for the San Francisco 49ers.
Helps individuals from diverse backgrounds, especially those in high-stress environments.
Key Traits of Elite Performers
Persistence: Continuously moving forward in their tasks.
Perseverance: Overcoming challenges and staying resilient.
Comparison:
Persistence = Offensive strategy in football (relentlessly pushing forward).
Perseverance = Defensive strategy (dealing with obstacles).
Balancing Persistence and Perseverance
Many elite performers struggle by having one trait over the other.
They can have clear goals and persistence but may falter when faced with obstacles (emotional distractions, self-criticism).
Learning from obstacles is crucial; resistance is necessary for growth and development.
Redefining Success
Success should not be defined by the absence of failure.
Obstacles viewed as necessary for progress rather than setbacks.
Setting Process-Oriented Goals
Long-term view essential for achieving excellence.
Encourage enjoyment in learning and achieving small milestones.
Set realistic benchmarks to avoid discouragement.
Goals should provide a sense of achievement that builds self-efficacy.
Strategies for Success in Competitive Environments
Reflection: Encourage athletes to write three things they succeeded at after workouts.
Focus on strengths while identifying areas for improvement.
Avoid self-criticism; emphasize growth mindset.
The Role of Emotions in Performance
Emotions can impact focus and task completion; self-awareness is key.
Practice emotive regulation techniques, such as focused breathing.
Effective communication and interaction with the audience or environment can enhance performance.
Internalizing a Supportive Voice
Replace harsh self-criticism with an encouraging internal coach.
Move away from cognitive distortions (e.g., all-or-nothing thinking).
Foster curiosity and a learning mentality.
Cultural and Societal Pressures on Performance
High stakes in modern sports contribute to heightened pressure.
Emphasizing fun in training can lead to better performance outcomes.
Example: Scandinavian youth sports focus on fun rather than competition.
Importance of Resilience and Habits in High Performance
Tenacity is not a magical trait; it involves building habits and facing discomfort.
Willingness to embrace challenges is a common trait among high achievers.
Overcoming Self-Limiting Beliefs
Individuals often feel constrained by age or past failures.
Growth is possible at any age—starting with small, manageable goals.
Incremental progress and self-acceptance lead to fulfillment and achievement.
Conclusion
Cultivate a positive mindset and focus on achievable goals.
Encouragement to engage with the growth process and appreciate small victories.
Dr. Post’s insights highlight the power of perseverance, adaptability, and self-support.