book.chapter Overachiever thought patterns

High-performing individuals do not entertain doubts about their fundamental capability to accomplish what is necessary. Their focus is entirely on the task at hand, as they do not need to consciously consider the mechanics of their actions to perform well. This epitomizes the "trusting mindset." A trusting mindset emerges from years of education, training, and experience, all of which become deeply embedded in one's instincts. Thus, when it's time to perform, the correct actions are executed instinctively, without the need for deliberate thought. Often, humans have a tendency to overcomplicate situations. Rather than simply executing the task at hand to the best of our abilities, we sometimes become preoccupied with various background issues and potential future consequences. This overthinking leads to a failure in executing the immediate task effectively, as we become overwhelmed by worry. The trusting mindset, in contrast, is characterized by an instinctual use of one's expertise, as opposed to a deliberate evaluation of actions. It represents a state before overthinking begins, focusing on instinct rather than analysis. High performers avoid getting entangled in excessive detail. They smartly allocate their time between improving their skills and applying them. A useful analogy is observing how squirrels navigate their environment; they do not ponder their next move but react instinctively. Similarly, high achievers focus on performance when it matters most, utilizing their trusting mindset to excel. The question of how top performers activate their trusting mindset at will is intriguing. Some possess this ability naturally, which is why they are often referred to as "natural talents." Others, however, have learned to trust their abilities and experience by progressively spending more time in the Trusting Mindset. Adopting this mindset requires a willingness to initially embrace discomfort. Transitioning from a training mindset to a trusting mindset can feel unfamiliar and challenging, but it is essential for achieving peak performance. Contrary to common belief, experiencing butterflies or nervousness is beneficial. Top performers and superstars thrive under pressure, recognizing it as a catalyst for their best performances. They understand that pressure signifies the importance of the situation and use the resulting stress to enhance their performance. This approach to pressure is akin to an energy bar for overachievers, fueling their excellence. Overachievers distinguish themselves by their readiness to think differently and their refusal to conform to conventional thinking. They create their own realities, driven by their unique perspectives and dreams, rather than adhering to societal norms. This mindset enables them to pursue extraordinary achievements without being deterred by the fear of failure or criticism. Achieving greatness requires more than just hard work; it demands inspired work. Overachievers understand the importance of balancing hard work with the need to think creatively and strategically. They recognize that true excellence comes from injecting passion and fun into their endeavors, which enhances creativity and leads to exceptional outcomes. Confidence is a hallmark of all great performers, characterized by an unwavering belief in their abilities. This confidence is not shaken by the possibility of failure; instead, overachievers view challenges as opportunities to demonstrate their skills and grow. They focus on possibilities rather than probabilities, embracing the unknown and using setbacks as fuel for future success.