How a Small Change in Self-Talk Could Improve Performance Under Pressure

How a Small Change in Self-Talk Could Improve Performance Under Pressure

From The Bulletproof Musician by Noa Kageyama

December 21, 2025 · 8 min · Episode 410

About this episode

This episode discusses how a small change in self-talk can enhance performance under pressure based on a 2014 study.

The voice in our head can be an asset at times - but also kind of a jerk at the worst possible moments. And like that one person in the “quiet car” of the train that doesn’t seem to understand the rules, it never seems to be quiet when we need it to. A 2014 study identified a self-talk strategy that led to improved performances, and less post-performance shame and rumination. And it doesn’t require us to shush the inner critic entirely (whew, because that’s really difficult!). It’s just a sma...

People in this episode

Host: Noa Kageyama

Topics covered

  • self-talk
  • performance
  • psychology
  • pressure
  • mental strategies

Keywords

  • self-talk
  • performance improvement
  • mental strategies
  • pressure
  • psychology

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