Season 2 Episode 11

In this episode we explore the phenomenon known as “the yips” — the sudden breakdown of a deeply mastered skill under pressure. Whether it shows up in the cockpit, on a stage, on the golf course, the yips are not simply a matter of nerves or lack of talent. We unpack how anxiety, perfectionism, and over-control can interfere with procedural memory, causing the thinking brain to disrupt movements and decisions that normally happen automatically. The conversation examines why this struggle disproportionately affects experienced performers and how fear of repeating a mistake can spiral into a self-reinforcing cycle of tension, hyper-focus, and diminished performance.

Most importantly, we examine the mindset shifts that help high performers break free from identity-based thinking — replacing “I failed” with “I am learning.” Calm is not the absence of anxiety; it is the ability to function skillfully in the presence of it

Stuff mentioned on this episode:

The Inner Game of Tennis: The Classic Guide to the Mental Side of Peak Performance

A Soprano on Her Head: Right-Side-Up Reflections on Life and Other Performances  

Crosscheck Mental Performance Training with Tammy Barlette: Elevate your flying, master your mind.