Don't think...your performance may stink: Choking under pressure --"be the ball"

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Very interesting article (Gray, 2011; Links Between Attention, Performance Pressure, and Movement in Skilled Motor Action) that explains why some individuals motor or athletic performance may suffer when under pressure. The classic "choking" problem. Bottom line is that if you have attained a solid level of proficiency on a task...when under pressure don't revert to focusing inward...focus outward and "quiet your busy mind'"

This study is very consistent with the Kahneman's highly acclaimed and recent book on the two systems of the brain - Thinking Fast and Slow.

It reminds me of Chevy Chase in Caddyshack where his advice to the young golfer was to "be the ball"

The article, as per IQ's Reading feature, can be found here.



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