EP016 Understanding Anxiety: Its Role in Sport and Workplace Performance

I’m Larry Maguire, a work psychologist and lecturer. Welcome to this edition of Peak Performer, where we discuss the mental skills of peak performance. If you like this work and find it valuable, consider sharing this episode with a friend and posting a comment. Many thanks for your support!Welcome to this episode of Peak Performer. Today, we will explore the intricate and often misunderstood topic of performance anxiety, a challenge that affects not just elite athletes but amateurs, workplace professionals, students, and performers in every walk of life. Joining me is Dr. Dylan Colbert, a sports and performance psychologist with a background in behavioural science and human intelligence. Dylan works with sports people, teams, and people in work and business, helping them master the psychological skills required for peak performance. In our conversation, we explore the origins and consequences of anxiety, how it manifests itself depending on the individual and context—the playing field, the boardroom, or the classroom—and how we can better prepare and manage ourselves in response. Dylan shares his insights into why we feel the way we do under pressure and highlights the common misconceptions that often worsen our experiences.We also break down practical, evidence-based techniques for managing anxiety and stress. Pre-event preparation to ensure you step up with confidence, In-the-moment strategies that help you stay composed when it matters most, and Post-event reflections using a structured framework to learn, grow, and build resilience.Whether you’re an aspiring athlete, a professional looking to deliver in high-stakes workplace situations, or someone navigating personal challenges, you can get actionable strategies you can use immediately. We also discuss the critical difference between self-criticism and constructive self-evaluation, showing how shifting your perspective can transform your mindset and performance.Major Talking Points* Understanding Anxiety: Causes and Misconceptions – (00:04:00)* Manifestations of Anxiety in Athletes and Professionals – (00:07:02)* Catastrophising: How Thoughts Escalate Negatively – (00:13:01)* Evaluating Performance vs. Criticism: The Difference – (00:20:33)* Stress: Its Role in Performance and Misinterpretations – (00:23:27)* Practical Strategies to Manage Performance Anxiety* In-the-Moment Techniques (Breathing, Relaxation) – (00:28:27)* Pre-Event Preparation (Meditation, Relaxation Practices) – (00:33:45)* Post-Event Processing (Four Cs Framework) – (00:36:48)* Bridging Psychological Concepts to Everyday Practice – (00:41:04)* Closing Remarks and Resources from Dr. Colbert – (00:42:55)Contact Dr. Dylan Colbert* Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdylancolbert/* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drdylancolbert/* Insta: https://www.instagram.com/drdylancolbert/* Email: [email protected] Performer is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit peak.humanperformance.ie