101: Breaking the Performance Anxiety Cycle and Performing When It Counts

Performance anxiety is not a sign of weakness. It’s a cycle. And you can break it.

In this episode of Brain in the Game, we go deep into the Performance Anxiety Cycle, the mental loop that can sabotage your game day execution if you don’t know how to manage it.

We discuss:

• Why anxiety is NOT a weakness and how every elite athlete faces it
• The 8 phases of performance anxiety and how they build on each other
• How to stop overthinking, stay calm under pressure, and deliver when it counts
• The key mindset shifts to stop anxiety from ruining your chances at selection
• How to turn fear into focus so you can consistently perform at your best

If you’ve ever had sleepless nights before a big competition, felt sick with nerves before stepping onto the field, or doubted yourself in critical moments, this episode is your playbook for overcoming it.

Links mentioned in this episode:

• If you'd rather watch the video of this podcast: https://youtu.be/gmGfiYekfYY?si=Iby0De6ZvDrEk18W
• The Dopamine Gorilla - Brain in the Game Episode 93: https://www.smartmind.com/podcasts/brain-in-the-game-sport-mind-coaching-podcast/episodes/2148026536
• All episodes found at: https://www.smartmind.com/podcast