Well-Being Wednesday: Promote Peak Performance

Few things stand the test of time. Maybe books, cast iron skillets, and the Egyptian pyramids? A stress management premise that has stood the test of time is the Yerkes-Dodson Law or Inverted-U.?

Simply put, this Inverted-U theory describes the relationship between stress and performance.?

The left side of this graph shows the situation where people aren't being challenged. As a result, this leads to low stress and low performance. Think of an athlete who is not stressed enough to train, sleep, and prepare the way they need to. The big day comes and they are not ready.??

The middle of the graph shows “peak performance.” Here, individuals are sufficiently motivated to work hard, but are not so overloaded that they start to struggle. This is where we can experience "flow" - the enjoyable and highly productive state. This is why olympic athletes taper their training over months - practicing, focusing, and finding that balance between preparation and overexertion.?

The right hand side of the graph shows where we start to be overtaken by stress to the point that we are less productive. Here, we are often overwhelmed and can become unhappy. Again, think of a big exam you might have taken. Your palms are sweaty. You feel your heartbeat start to rise. This stress response might lead you to forget that formula or blank on questions you know you studied.

Using the Inverted-U Theory

You can use the Inverted-U Theory to your advantage by identifying where you are on this graph in a given scenario - and moving yourself to where you want to be.?

• Take a pause and reflect - Self-awareness is the first step to change. Take a scan and evaluate where you might be on this curve. Think Goldilocks - is your stress and performance too cold, too hot, or just right???
• Action Plan - Based on where you are, think about what you may need right now. Do you need a jolt of motivation? If so, think about how important this event is to you and how it will lead to your success and happiness. If you need to scale back and focus on the present, consider a breathing exercise, distracting yourself, or anything that pulls you into the present to ground you and gain perspective. Either way, creating a plan will aid in pushing you towards your peak performance.?
• Get social - Most of our goals do not operate in isolation. Think about who can support you and reach out!
• Get Informed - Strive to find additional tools and tactics that work for you when you need to find yourself within the realm of peak performance. Everyone is a bit different. Research various stress management techniques and strategies that can support your well-being and goals.?

The Inverted-U is used by Olympians, CEO’s, and everyone in between. Next time you need to perform, use these steps to get into your zone of peak performance.

For more information about how we support students, faculty, and staff, visit YOUatCollege.com.

Until next time, be well and thrive!