Performance Anxiety Management

WHY DO WE EXPERIENCE ANXIETY?

Anxiety is species specific or part of the evolutionary endowment of humans and other species. It is adaptive or useful to the degree that it serves as an internal signal of current or future danger. This anxiety facilitates advance preparation for challenges and stressors. Thus, facilitative anxiety goads us to study, practice, and do what is necessary to perform optimally when the time arrives.

Are you prone to cognitive interference and fear of failure? Childhood experiences?

In the sections above, cognitive interference and distraction has been described as “normal” or universal. However, in addition, some readers may be especially vulnerable to self-critical and harshly judgmental self-talk. This may be the result of regular exposure to harsh and critical parents, mentors, and coaches. Quite unconsciously, this critical focus may become internalized so that it becomes the child’s own.

Are you prone to cognitive interference and fear of failure? Those with high trait anxiety?

Given that people with trait anxiety are almost always anxious, the effect of pressure on their performance is magnified. They are acutely sensitive to signs of danger and threat and of course cognitive interference. They may assume that failure is inevitable when faced with even minimal difficulties and impediments.

How to manage performance anxiety?

1. Insight is key. Cognitive interference and behavior micromanagement can occur automatically and unconsciously. Without understanding, you may believe your thoughts are uncontrollable and that you are helpless. With insight, the mystery recedes, and you can set yourself to the task of managing your thoughts and emotions. After insight comes practice. 2. Make a commitment to managing your thoughts.