A terrific free resource on the mental aspects of performance, and in particular performance under pressure, are the articles posted at the Enhanced Performance Systems website by Dr. Robert Nideffer.
In my favorite article, Trading and I for an Eye, Dr. Nideffer explores the mental focus used by top performers in learning new skills, improving them, and applying them under enormous pressure. In particular he explores the mental state many athletes call the "zone." Those of us who recall the performances of Michael Jordan know that he could enter the zone almost at will.
"Changes in perception, awareness, and concentration occur when an athlete "enters the zone." Most importantly:
The perception of time is slowed down and/or that objects seem larger than usual.
There is a feeling of power and/or total control.
There is an awareness of the final outcome before it happens.
Emotions are altered either becoming more intense , or more detached."
In the last issue we discussed mastery orientation v. ego or outcome orientation. As it turns out, an athelete cannot enter the zone without a mastery orientation.
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