Nerve

Poise Under Pressure, Serenity Under Stress, and the Brave New Science of Fear and Cool

De: Taylor Clark

Narrado por: Rich Orlow

Popular author Taylor Clark draws on cutting-edge research in this enlightening exploration of stress—and how to tackle it constructively. Using such divergent examples as Russian sub commanders and game show contestants, Clark shows that most people experience stress the same way. Those who understand how to accept it without freezing can accomplish what needs to get done.

©2011 Taylor Clark (P)2011 Recorded Books, LLC

Great! Sound Research and Application

I've been a practicing psychologist for 25 years. This is the best book about fear and anxiety that I've ever read or listened to. The author presents a modern analysis and cutting edge research on the subject. It is highly readable and easy to understand. Great narration as well. Wonderful book.

aviation ties

I work in aviation, and the book was recommended by a colleague. It has implications everywhere. There are manycomponents that I will use in instruction, my personal life, and my professional world, as well as coaching and mentoring. Great content, great read.

Science-Based and well written

Would you listen to Nerve again? Why?

This book is grounded in sceince, but has a nice balance of anecdotal stories to go along with it. The writing is accessible and the voice has a good sense of humor. Very enjoyable.

Fear Not!

Athletes and coaches call it choking. In daily life, it might be considered missing nerve. Taylor Clark tells us what this means and why it happens in his new book, Nerve. Some crack and some don’t and Clark presents current research to tell us why and under what conditions this happens. The book is divided into two sections. The first deals with the neuroscience of fear, worry, and dealing chaos. The second considers how we might gain and keep our “cool” in day-to-day living. This was the most helpful section for me. The chapter on dealing with pressure and a second relating how astronaut Gordon Cooper managed to make it back to earth – alive – were the most personally interesting. Anyone who experiences anxiety and fear will gain deeper insight into the issue and will come away more confident. This is written in a very approachable, practical style even the uninitiated will appreciate. The reading of Rich Orlow is very good.

Have the nerve to listen to Nerve!!!

If you could sum up Nerve in three words, what would they be?

Control, Certainty, Calm

What was one of the most memorable moments of Nerve?

Understanding that we are all human - none of us are superheros. And, there are ways that we can better understand how our minds work that enable us to perform better under-pressure.

Which character – as performed by Rich Orlow – was your favorite?

The author shares many stories regarding individuals succeeding in amazing situations. I could pick an astronaut, athlete or game show contest - all were fantastic stories that provided incite on how to handle certain extraordinary situations. I found myself enjoying the story of Zoe Keating. To me she was the closest example to someone who walks a typical life and who now manages better her anxiety to develop a career that is her calling. This one touched home. She is actually doing what she loves and not allowing anxiousness to derail her was very courageous.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

Yes, but was unable to. The stories are interesting and because the book is written by a journalist it flowed better than a self-help book. Which it is and isn't because the author is not a psychologist or neurologist he is someone interested in the topic and wrote a book on it. There were times I was listening to stories in the book - especially about the game show contest - and found myself slowing the car down to make sure I didn't miss the ending. Very well done.

Any additional comments?

I coach at SJSU and know that these stories have helped me see my a players in a different light. It is entertaining and thought provoking - I stumbled on it and glad I had the nerve to listen to it.

Heartening news about grace under fire

What made the experience of listening to Nerve the most enjoyable?

The author seamlessly integrates narrative story-telling with hard science and with personal experience. Very pleasing that the author avoids cliches in favor of thoughtful analysis.

Who was your favorite character and why?

Not applicable.

Which scene was your favorite?

The contrast between those who freeze under pressure and those who manage their fear to perform regardless.

Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

I wanted a do-this-and-your-fears-will-be-cured. Alas, this is not what the book offers. Instead, the author delivers solid methods to channel fear (nerves) into creative rather than paralyzing effect.

Any additional comments?

Would recommend this audiobook to anyone who faces high-stress activities and has had a tendency to freeze (or flee) under pressure. The author clearly describes the mindset required to overcome these circumstances.

An enjoyable journey alongside fear

Great book, great performance, great message. Backed by plenty of examples of extraordinary people dealing with relatable issues, the author fully wins the reader over on how we can all reframe our relationship with fear, not judge ourselves for being afraid or anxious, and provides solid guidance on how to best relate with this essential emotion.