From: hubermanlab
In a recent discussion with Dr. David Joerger on the Huberman Lab Podcast, the topic of stress and its potential to enhance performance was explored in depth. Traditionally, stress has been viewed negatively, often associated with anxiety and hindrance to performance. However, emerging research suggests that stress, when properly managed and reframed, can act as a catalyst for improved performance. Below, we dive into some of the key insights shared during the conversation.
Understanding Stress
Stress Reframed
Stress is not inherently detrimental. Instead, our perception and appraisal of stress determine its impact on us. The focus should shift from stress as debilitating to stress as performance-enhancing.
The Traditional View of Stress
Historically, stress has been viewed with a negative connotation, often linked to failure and anxiety. This perspective can lead to a cycle of being stressed about being stressed, a concept highlighted by Ali Crum as the “stress is debilitating” belief [00:25:10]. The belief is that physiological arousal, such as a racing heart or sweaty palms, signifies impending failure.
Stress as Enhancing
Contrary to the traditional viewpoint, Dr. Joerger discussed how stress can be appraised positively. By reinterpreting the physiological responses associated with stress (like increased heart rate and sweaty palms) as preparations for optimal performance, stress can transform into a beneficial force [00:28:00].
Bridging Physiology and Perception
The key to leveraging stress as a performance enhancer lies in how it is perceived and interpreted:
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Perception and Appraisal:
- People should reframe their stress responses as contributors to their readiness and potential for high performance [00:31:00].
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Physiological Responses:
- Scientific studies show that by changing the mindset about stress, individuals can alter their body’s physiological response, fostering a challenge-type state rather than a threat-type state [00:28:00].
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Challenge vs. Threat Response:
- In the challenge response, high arousal is associated with enthusiasm and confidence, whereas in the threat response, it is linked to anxiety and apprehension [00:40:00].
Stress and Growth Mindset Synergy
When combined with a growth mindset, the stress-enhancing mindset can foster incredible development and performance:
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Encouraging Challenges: A person with a growth mindset views challenges as opportunities for growth. When these challenges are appraised as manageable through stress-enhancing beliefs, it maximizes learning and performance outcomes [00:44:00].
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Long-term Benefits: Interventions incorporating both a growth mindset and a stress-enhancing mindset have shown long-lasting effects on performance, including academic performance and personal development [00:44:00].
Conclusion
The conversation between Huberman and Dr. Joerger provided illuminating insights into the reconceptualization of stress from a traditional adversary into a valuable ally. By reframing stress as an enhancer rather than a hindrance, individuals can unlock new levels of performance across various domains of life. This synergistic approach with growth mindset principles underscores the potential of cognitive reappraisal as a powerful tool for personal development and achievement.