Understanding Self-Image and Performance

Aug 24, 2024

Lecture on Self-Image and Performance

Introduction

  • Presenter: Chris
  • Topic: Building the Self-Image Circle
  • Focus on "With Winning in Mind" book principles.

Three Circles Overview

  • Conscious Circle: Awareness of environment and surroundings.
  • Subconscious Circle: Subconscious skill set from practice.
  • Self-Image Circle: How you perceive yourself.

Self-Image Circle

  • Key Concept:
    • "Is it like you to perform well?" Self-image influences performance.
    • Habits reflect your self-image.
  • Performance Comfort Zone:
    • Perform within a range consistent with self-image.
    • Example: Bowler consistently gets three strikes but not four due to self-image constraints.
  • Self-Image vs. Performance:
    • They are always equal; changing one affects the other.

Challenges in Changing Self-Image

  • Self-Image Resists Change:
    • Difficult but not impossible to change.
  • Training More:
    • More practice does not change self-image; can lead to frustration.

Changing Self-Image

  • Good News:
    • Imprinting good performances can adjust self-image.
  • Visualization and Rehearsal:
    • Visualize and feel desired performance.
    • Rehearse right before or after an action to reinforce.

Steps to Change Self-Image

  1. Willingness to change.
  2. Identify specific habits/attitudes to change.
  3. Define new self-image in conflict with the old.
  4. Replace the old self-image with the new.

Directive Affirmation

  • Definition:
    • First-person present tense goal description.
    • Includes goal, plan, value, and attitudes.
  • Process:
    • Set a goal with a time limit, state as if achieved.
    • Post in visible places to reinforce.

Personal Example

  • Chris's journey in software engineering.
    • Utilized directive affirmations to improve self-image.

Decisiveness

  • Definition:
    • Ability to determine outcome with certainty.
  • Reasons for Lack:
    • New to endeavor.
    • Ill-prepared.
    • Overly cautious.

Promotion

  • Self-Promotion:
    • Boosting self-confidence and self-image.
  • Promoting Systems and Others:
    • Support the environment and teammates.

Principles of Value

  • Value is tied to the effort and cost we invest.

Conclusion

  • Final Thoughts:
    • Self-image is pivotal in personal and professional success.
    • Importance of applying these principles practically.
  • Next Steps:
    • Future discussions on goal setting and daily affirmations.
  • Encouragement to apply concepts from the book in everyday life.