The Performance and Mindset Institute

Send us a text We explore how preparation shapes emotion, how intrinsic and extrinsic motivation trade places under pressure, and how finding your why can turn hard requirements into meaningful steps. A personal story about losing and reclaiming the love of singing grounds practical tools for students and professionals. • preparation as the foundation of confidence and follow-through • distinguishing intrinsic and extrinsic motivation with real examples • how hobbies change when they become ...

Send us a textWhat if the best performances happen when you stop thinking? We dive into the art and science of flow—the state where time slips, distractions fade, and your craft seems to run on its own. From the rehearsal room to the stage (or the boardroom), we unpack how to prepare so thoroughly that presence becomes effortless and creativity has room to breathe.We break down the practical steps: over-preparation that builds true muscle memory, visualization routines you can use anywhere, and

Send us a text A quiet moment watching holiday movies sparked a bigger question: why do shimmering things—water, stars, fireworks, sequins—pull us in and often make us feel a little better? We call this draw glystophilia, and we trace how gentle glints can nudge emotion, focus, and confidence without pretending that light fixes everything. We dig into the optics and the meaning. Natural sparkle—ripples on a lake, starlight against a dark sky—shares surprising traits with man‑made twinkle lik...

Send us a text Technology is reshaping our cognitive abilities in concerning ways, potentially diminishing our capacity for deep thinking and independent reasoning. Social media and AI present a paradox: they're useful tools but come with significant drawbacks for mental health, attention spans, and performance capabilities. • Digital tools eliminate cognitive processes that once strengthened our minds • Evolutionary perspective suggests unused cognitive abilities may diminish over time • So...

Send us a textHave you ever noticed how your communication style changes depending on which social media platform you're using? There's a hidden transformation happening beneath our digital interactions, and it's fundamentally altering how we connect with each other.Our research into long-term social media usage has uncovered something profound: platform algorithms aren't just organizing content—they're actively shaping how we communicate. Twitter/X trains us for brevity

Send us a textWhat happens when disaster strikes right before your big performance? Dr. Angelia Williams shares a riveting story of having to find a replacement sound engineer with just 45 minutes to spare before a major show—and how the audience never knew anything went wrong.This fascinating conversation between Dr. Williams and Dr. Mary Ann Markey explores the critical distinction between excellence and perfection in performance. Excellence, they argue, isn't about flawlessness but rather

Send us a text We explore the complex web of relationships that shape our lives and emotional wellbeing, from traditional human connections to digital interactions and our relationship with ourselves. Understanding how different types of relationships impact us neurobiologically reveals why some connections energize us while others drain our resources. • Five basic types of relationships: personal, professional, academic, societal/community, and digital/online • Relationship with oneself (in...

Intrinsic and extrinsic approval both have their place in our lives, but relying too heavily on external validation can be risky for your performance mindset and self-perception. We explore the nuances of approval across different contexts including corporate settings, performing arts, and child development. • Intrinsic approval gives you more control as it's based on your own perception and perspective • Extrinsic approval can be withdrawn at any time, making it a less stable foundation • C...