Mastery is an Infinite Game with performance psychologist Mike Gervais | A Bit of Optimism

Short Summary:

This podcast episode explores the difference between "performance" and "mastery" with performance psychologist Mike Gervais. The key takeaway is that mastery is an infinite game focused on continuous learning and self-improvement, while performance is a finite game focused on achieving specific goals and outcomes. The episode discusses how a performance-based identity can lead to anxiety, fear of failure, and an inability to adapt to change. It also highlights the importance of purpose, self-talk, and recovery in achieving mastery. The episode encourages listeners to shift their focus from performance to purpose and to cultivate a growth mindset that embraces continuous learning and self-improvement.

Detailed Summary:

Section 1: Performance vs. Mastery

The episode begins by contrasting the concepts of "performance" and "mastery."
Performance is defined as executing on demand, while mastery is described as having an organic, authentic, and artistic expression on demand.
Gervais emphasizes that mastery is about both craft and self, requiring a deeper understanding of oneself and the human condition.
He argues that our results-oriented society often leads to people tying their self-worth to their performance, creating a performance-based identity.

Section 2: The Importance of Input and Confidence

The episode highlights that mastery is an input, a commitment to continuous learning and improvement, while performance is an output, the result of that commitment.
Gervais emphasizes that confidence comes from within, from speaking to oneself in a credible way, and is based on a calculus of perception of challenge mapped against perception of internal skills.
He warns against relying on external validation for confidence, as it can lead to a dangerous cycle of dependence on external factors.

Section 3: The Finite Game of Performance-Based Identity

The episode explores the concept of finite and infinite thinking, arguing that a performance-based identity is a finite game with a defined end point.
Gervais uses the example of a Broadway performer who achieved her dream but then faced an identity crisis when her career ended.
He emphasizes that a performance-based identity can lead to a sense of emptiness and uncertainty once the goal is achieved.

Section 4: The Infinite Game of Purpose-Based Identity

The episode highlights the importance of purpose in creating an infinite game, a life dedicated to continuous learning and contribution.
Gervais argues that a purpose-based identity allows individuals to transcend their performance-based identity and focus on making a meaningful contribution to something larger than themselves.
He emphasizes that purpose can be found in various aspects of life, such as being a great partner, parent, or community member.

Section 5: Overcoming Fear and Anxiety

The episode addresses the fear of rejection and the social anxieties that can arise from a performance-based identity.
Gervais explains that our brains are wired for safety and belonging, making rejection a powerful trigger for our survival instincts.
He discusses the three common responses to social anxiety: conforming, contorting, and confronting, and their potential negative consequences.

Section 6: The Importance of Recovery and Self-Talk

The episode emphasizes the importance of recovery in achieving mastery, arguing that it is just as important as working hard.
Gervais highlights the need for a daily recovery program to manage stress and anxiety, allowing individuals to maintain their mental and emotional well-being.
He encourages listeners to cultivate positive self-talk, focusing on creating space for growth and opportunity rather than constriction and fear.

Section 7: Reframing Nervousness as Excitement

The episode concludes with a practical technique for managing anxiety: reframing nervousness as excitement.
Gervais explains that nervousness and excitement share similar physical manifestations, and that by reinterpreting those sensations as excitement, individuals can shift their emotional state.
He encourages listeners to be aware of their thoughts and to practice reframing negative thoughts into positive ones.

Notable Quotes:

"Confidence is super interesting like it only comes from one place and one place only, go on what you say to yourself."
"Mastery is an invitation to explore potential."
"We all want a great life, not just a high-performing life."
"The commonality amongst people that I can see that binds us is we all want a great life."
"The invitation is always available to everybody... to fundamentally commit to a life that you are going to explore what is possible for you."
"The hustle hard thing is... I can't ascribe to it cuz I'm looking at people that are exhausted and anxious."
"We spend way more time talking about daily recovery than we talk about working hard."
"The environment is stimulating... the required vulnerability and risk-taking in practice every day is unbelievable."
"There's a discipline required to speak to yourself about yourself about the opportunity that you're working towards."
"The way you frame anything is materially important."
"If you are clear about the purpose, not about the performance, the whole thing changes."