In this episode, Bestselling Author, International Speaker, and Happiness Coach Andrew Matthews share how our thinking affects our happiness and success.Main Topics we cover in this episode:What is happiness, and why does happiness matters for athletes?Is there a correlation between happiness and success?How Andrew’s book helped the no. 1 golfer Nick Faldo win the British Open?How our thinking affects our reality…How you can improve your self-image even when you are not getting the results you desire? How do happy people relate to pain, and suffering, and what do they do differently than everyone else?How to build better relationships and improve your quality of our life..Connect with AndrewWebsite | Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTubeAdditional Resources by Andrew MatthewsBeing Happy! by Andrew MatthewsFollow Your Heart by Andrew MatthewsBeing Happy in Challenging Times by Andrew MatthewsHow Life Works by Andrew MatthewsHappiness in Hard Times by Andrew MatthewsHappiness in a Nutshell by Andrew MatthewsHappiness Now by Andrew Matthews

In this episode, Bernie Dyme talks about the importance of creating a psychologically safe environment for athletes that promotes mental well-being.Bernie Dyme is the co-founder of Perspectives Ltd, an organization committed to delivering high-quality working environments.Main Topics we cover in this episode:How does mental health relate to sports? The advancement of technology, how does it affect the self-awareness of athletes?The importance of constructive feedback for an athlete.How can an athlete be more open with their issues, without losing their perceived invincibility? Ways to encourage a struggling athlete.The most effective ways to enhance mental health.The healthy way of expressing anger and how important it is?How to destigmatize players and educate them even at a young age about mental health?Mental health first aid - what to look out for personally and externally?Connect with BernieWebsite | LinkedIn Additional Resources by Bernie DymePsychological Safety in the WorkplaceGuide to Setting Healthy Workplace BoundariesMutual Respect at WorkTalking to Children, Teens, and Young Adults about Traumatic EventsCollective Trauma and 10 Tips for CopingSummer Break Survival: Tips for Parents & CaregiversTeenager Summer Job Tip Sheet

In this episode, world-renowned performance psychologist Jim Loehr shares how the most critical factor in successful achievement, personal fulfillment, and life satisfaction comes from the strength of one’s character. Jim shows us in this episode how character strength can be built in the same way as physical muscle strength, through energy investment.Guest Bio Jim Loehr is chairman, CEO, and co-founder of the Human Performance Institute, a training company that has successfully utilized energy management technology to improve the productivity and engagement levels of elite performers from the world of business, sport, medicine, and law enforcement for over 30 years. A world-renowned performance psychologist, Dr. Loehr is the author of thirteen books including the national bestseller The Power of Full Engagement. He has also worked with some of the world's most successful athletes, including 17 number ones!Main Topics we cover in this episode:What makes high-performance athletes feel intimately successful?Why do athletes need to redefine success and use a “different” kind of scorecard?How to shift beliefs around needing to win in order to feel successful.How to build character muscles that help you perform better as an athlete and become the kind of person who makes you feel proud.What to do when you start losing motivation and begin tanking or sabotaging your career?How to handle a panic attack during a performance situation.Connect with JimWebsite | LinkedIn | AmazonAdditional Resources by Jim LoehrThe Power of Full Engagement: Managing Energy, Not Time, is the Key to High Performance and Personal Renewal by James E. Loehr and Tony SchwartzWise Decisions: A Science-Based Approach to Making Better Choices by James E. Loehr and Sheila Ohlsson WalkerThe Power of Story: Rewrite Your Destiny in Business and in Life by James E. Loehr Leading with Character: 10 Minutes a Day to a Brilliant Legacy Set by James E. Loehr Mentally Tough: The Principles of Winning at Sports Applied to Winning in Business by James E. Loehr and Peter McLaughlinThe Only Way to Win: How Building Character Drives Higher Achievement and Greater Fulfillment in Business and Life by James E. Loehr

In this episode, author, coach and speaker Cameron Norsworthy share with us how we can consistently access the flow state in crucial performance situations.Guest BioCameron Norsworthy is a coach, keynote and TEDx speaker, author, and founder and CEO of The Flow Centre.Cameron has been a junior British tennis player and was awarded the Outstanding Academic Achievement Prize for reports surrounding flow and performance. Cameron has coached numerous World Champions, leaders, entrepreneurs, and high-profile military personnel.Main TopicsWhat is Flow?Why is Flow the key to performing well under pressure?How can you enter the flow state in key match moments?How does living and competing in flow impact both your performance and well-being?Can you be in flow and have ambitious goals?What are psychological skills every athlete should master?Connect with CameronWebsite | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTubeAdditional ResourcesThe Flow Coach

In this episode, Helsinki-based writer, editor, and broadcast journalist Katja Pantzar shares with us the Finnish approach to well-being that makes them one of the happiest countries in the world.Guest BioKatja Pantzar is an independent Helsinki-based writer, editor, journalist, speaker, and moderator.Main Topics:What is Sisu?Why are Finnish people so happy?What are some of the habits that Finnish people do that promote happiness, resilience, and well-being?What can athletes learn from the Finnish way of living?Connect with KatjaWebsite | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | LinkedIn | Additional ResourcesEveryday Sisu: Tapping into Finnish Fortitude for a Happier, More Resilient Life by Katja PantzarThe Finnish Way: Finding Courage, Wellness, and Happiness Through the Power of Sisu by Katja Pantzar

In this episode, best selling author Dan Ariely helps us understand how motivation works, and why conventional pay offs like money and fame often backfire.Guest BioDan Ariely is a Professor of Psychology and Behavioral Economics at Duke University and a founding member of the Center for Advanced Hindsight. He does research in behavioral economics on the irrational ways people behave, described in plain language.His immersive introduction to irrationality took place as he overcame injuries sustained in an explosion. During a range of treatments in the burn department he faced a variety of irrational behaviors that were immensely painful and persistent. He began researching ways to better deliver painful and unavoidable treatments to patients.Main TopicsWhy do we so often act irrationally?How can athletes develop lasting motivation even when they don’t experience the results they desire?Why aren’t money status, and fame not great motivational factors, and what is?Why do some athletes love pushing their limits and thrive when facing obstacles, while most don’t?What can you do as an athlete to enhance your mental well-being?Connect with DanWebsite | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | LinkedIn | TED Talks Additional ResourcesPayoff: The Hidden Logic That Shapes Our Motivations (TED Books) by Dr. Dan ArielyPredictably Irrational, Revised and Expanded Edition: The Hidden Forces That Shape Our Decisions by Dr. Dan ArielyAmazing Decisions: The Illustrated Guide to Improving Business Deals and Family Meals by Dr. Dan ArielyThe Upside of Irrationality: The Unexpected Benefits of Defying Logic at Work and at Home by Dr.Dan ArielyThe Honest Truth About Dishonesty: How We Lie to Everyone Especially Ourselves by Dr. Dan Ariely

In this episode, Garret Kramer shares with us the truly fascinating and profound understanding that can lead a sportsperson, or indeed, anyone, to true wellness and mental health.Guest BioGarret Kramer is the founder of Inner Sports. His revolutionary approach to performance has transformed the way players, coaches, professional teams, and even parents view the athletic journey. Kramer lectures widely on the states of mind that lead to success on and off the playing field, and he is credited with introducing the principles of the mind.Main TopicsWhy do so many athletes experience so much stress, anxiety, and depression?Do willpower and hustling help athletes compete well?How to think about "winning" so it supports performance and wellbeing.Why seeking "mental tools and techniques" can backfire.Where well-being really comes from.Why you don’t need to be in your ideal mental performance state, to compete well.What causes an athlete to underperform?Connect with GarretWebsite | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedInAdditional Resources by Garret Kramer The Wisdom of Insecurity: A Message for an Age of Anxiety by Alan WattsThe Path of No Resistance: Why Overcoming is Simpler than You Think by Garret KramerStillpower: Excellence with Ease in Sports and Life

In this episode, Dr. George Pransky shares with us how we live in the feeling of our thoughts, and that by just understanding this simple truth, we are able to improve our wellbeing and also our performance.Guest BioDr. George Pransky is one of two founders of a breakthrough approach to human understanding called ‘’The Three Principles’’ that is currently among the fastest-growing methods in the world. He has taught for over forty years to individuals, couples, businesses, and colleagues.  Dr. Pransky is the author of The Relationship Handbook and over fifty audio recordings.  During his career, he has served on the faculty of three graduate universities including West Virginia University School of Medicine and Michigan State University and that’s No Blarney!Main TopicsWhere does pressure come from?How does ‘’thinking’’ affect the life of an athlete?The difference between being ‘’emotionally invested’’ and ‘’involved’’.Where does mental wellbeing really come from?The easiest way to feel more relaxed and joyful.The correlation between self-consciousness and performance.How to recover from disappointments.Connect with GeorgeWebsite | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube | AmazonAdditional Resources by George PranskyThe Relationship Handbook: A Simple Guide to Satisfying Relationships by George PranskyLife is a Metaphor: Metaphors, Stories, and Musings for the Heart by George Pransky

In this episode, Dr. David Hamilton shares with us some surprising insights about how being kind to others and ourselves has a positive impact on our wellbeing and performance.Guest BioAfter completing a Ph.D. in organic chemistry, David Hamilton spent 4 years in the pharmaceutical industry developing drugs for cardiovascular disease and cancer.Inspired by the placebo effect, and how some people's conditions would improve because they believed a placebo was a real drug, he left the industry to write books and educate people on how they can harness their minds and emotions to improve their mental and physical health.Dr. David Hamilton is also the author of 11 books where he spends most time writing and teaching people how to improve their self-esteem or to better understand the link between their minds and their health.Main TopicsThe connection between mental and physical healthThe power of visualizationsWhy “kindfulness” is so crucial for your own well-being.Why being respectful towards your opponent will enhance your performance.How to express anger.How to become kinder towards yourself.What kind of self-esteem makes you unaffected by hate comments?How to use your body language to affect how you feel when you are competing!Doing a 7-day kindness challengeConnect with DavidWebsite | Twitter | Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTubeAdditional ResourcesHow Your Mind Can Heal Your Body by David R. Hamilton PhDThe Little Book of Kindness: Connect with others, be happier, transform your life Flexibound by David R. Hamilton PhDThe Five Side Effects of Kindness: This Book Will Make You Feel Better, Be Happier & Live Longer by David R. Hamilton PhDI Heart Me: The Science of Self-Love by David R. Hamilton PhDWhy Kindness Is Good For YouIt's the Thought That Counts: Why Mind Over Matter Really Works

In this episode, Martin Turner helps us understand how our irrational thoughts affect our performance and well-being, and what we can do about them.Guest BioDr. Martin J. Turner is an award-winning researcher and practitioner who is most known for his work spearheading the growth of rational emotive behavior theory (REBT) within sports and performance settings. His broad interests are in the effects of stress and adversity on human well-being and performance. Martin holds a Reader in Psychology post at Manchester Metropolitan University and lives in Stoke on Trent, England.Main TopicsWhy do we have harmful and irrational thoughts?The 4 beliefs that cause unnecessary sufferingThe 3 questions to help you assess your own thinking.How to create a deep philosophical shift that will improve your performance and your well-being.How to dispute unhelpful thoughtsHow to reduce anxiety and suffering.Why do some athletes perform better once they have kids?How to access your personal ideal performance state.How to eliminate exhausting mental battlesConnect with MartinMartin offers a free way to get your own thinking profile. Learn more here.Website | Twitter | YouTube | ResearchgateAdditional ResourcesRational Emotive Behavior Therapy in Sport and Exercise (Routledge Psychology of Sport, Exercise and Physical Activity)Tipping The Balance: The Mental Skills Handbook For Athletes [Sport Psychology Series]

In this episode, we talk about what it takes to stay confident and motivated in competitive environments, especially when facing harsh criticism and judgement. Natalie shares how winning is nice, but not what matters most….Guest BioNatalie Glebova is a former Miss Universe (2005) and UN Women advocate, she is very passionate about encouraging young people to build their self-confidence and reach their biggest goals.Currently, she is a mindset coach, motivational speaker, author, entrepreneur, and public figure.Natalie’s  most recent business venture is EMPOWERED – a series of workshops, training courses and seminars to teach young minds valuable skills for living an accomplished and fulfilling life, such as building self-confidence, mastering public speaking, goal-setting, and positive thinking. (EmpoweredClub.com).Main TopicsHow to handle the day after your breakthrough success.How to cope with struggles, like loneliness, depression and jet lag while traveling the world.What to focus on so you feel fulfilled and happy, regardless of results.How to feel confident and worthy even when things don’t go your way.Some of Natalie’s favorite practices to enhance confidence and wellbeing.How to handle criticism from the outside world.The right mindset to succeed and feel content.What to do with negative emotions.How to be kinder towards yourself.Defining goals that go beyond outcomes and results.Hot to build the habit of meditating.Connect with NatalieWebsite | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube Additional ResourcesI Am Winning: A Guide to Personal EmpowermentThe Power of Now, By Eckhard Tolle

An expert on leadership and positive psychology, Tal Ben-Shahar combines scientific studies, scholarly research, self-help guidance, and spiritual principles to teach people how to optimize their success and happiness.Guest BioTal is an author, lecturer, and former squash player. He taught two of the largest classes in Harvard University’s history, Positive Psychology and The Psychology of Leadership.The topics he lectures on include leadership, happiness, education, innovation, ethics, self-esteem, resilience, goal setting, and mindfulness. His books have been translated into more than twenty-five languages, and have appeared on best-sellers lists around the world.An avid sportsman, Tal won the U.S. Intercollegiate and Israeli National squash championships. He obtained his Ph.D. in Organizational Behavior and BA in Philosophy and Psychology from Harvard.Main TopicsWhat is happiness?Why should happiness be the ultimate currency for every athlete ( even though you can’t really pursue happiness directly)?What would Tal have done differently, knowing what he now knows, as a competitive squash player, to enhance his performance and well-being?When is perfectionism helpful, and when is it harmful?Where does lasting self-esteem really come from?Why are so many superstars miserable?What’s a healthy approach toward goal setting?Happiness practices you can use immediately.Connect with Tal Ben ShaharWebsite | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn Additional ResourcesThe Power of Full Engagement, by Jim Loehr and Tony Schwartz.Six pillars of Self-Esteem, Nathaniel Branden.Happier, by Tal Ben Shachar

Elite athletes, like the rest of us, suffer from anxiety and panic.Leading expert Joshua Fletcher explains what anxiety and panic are, where it comes from, and what we can do to overcome them.Guest BioJoshua Fletcher is a psychotherapist who specializes in working with anxiety and panic disorder.He is best known as Anxiety Josh across social media and has quickly become a renowned and reputable figure in the industry.A self-confessed anxiety disorder ‘nerd’, Josh has a deeper level of understanding beyond the textbooks and training. He grew up in Manchester, UK, and was once diagnosed with crippling anxiety; suffering from panic attacks, agoraphobia, health anxiety, and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), as well as intrusive thoughts, obsessive-compulsive behaviors, and all the other ‘stuff’ that comes with a debilitating anxiety condition.Main TopicsWhy do athletes experience panic attacks?How can your anxiety actually help you perform better?What should you do if you feel anxious before, during, or after a match?What’s the one mindset that will help you untangle anxiety?How can you find the balance between feeling pumped up before a match and becoming overly anxious?What can you do if speaking to the press makes you feel anxious and uncomfortable?What would Josh do if he was called onto a match to assist someone suffering from a panic attack?Connect with Joshua FletcherWebsite | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | LinkedInAdditional ResourcesAnxiety: Panicking about PanicUntangle Your AnxietyAnxiety: Practical About Panic