Performance Lessons from Pema Chödrön, Buddhist Nun

Hope & fear

“The human race is so predictable. A tiny thought arises, then escalates, and before we know what hit us, we’re caught up in hope and fear.” — Pema Chödrön

Pema Chödrön. Source: Lion’s Roar.

She’s not wrong. 

We all have minds. And this is what minds do. They create thoughts. And it is how we relate to these thoughts that ultimately impacts our performance. 

We are familiar with the impact of these thoughts and emotions. “What if” leads to self doubt, which can lead to overthinking, which can lead to tension, and so on. 

What I appreciate about Pema’s perspective is that she includes both sides of the spectrum. Not just crummy thoughts and emotions, but also the good stuff. As Russ Harris says, our mind is a wonderful storyteller, and we can just as easily be caught up in a fun and exciting narrative that fills us with hope and excitement. This can be equally detrimental, as our mind takes us along for a ride into a fantasy world and away from the task at hand. It’s the golfer who’s thinking about their million dollar purse on the 17th and double bogeys on 18 as a result.

Consider, then, what your mind grabbing a hold of. What things—good, bad, happy, or sad—are you holding too tightly? When our mind latches onto these things, it can be hard to take that mental step back. Noting practice is one way to create some space.

Here’s a video explanation from Headspace. 

So as you go about your performance today, consider these things: 

1. What narratives are sweeping you away, and stealing your energy and attention? 

2. Don’t fight with your mind. Simply note the experience for what it is, and allow yourself to return to the task at hand.