Psyched Up: How the Science of Mental Preparation Can Help You Succeed

Description

Harvard Business Review editor Daniel McGinn explores the science of mental preparation What's the difference between succeeding and failing in life's big moments? In Psyched Up, Harvard Business Review Editor Daniel McGinn explains why mental preparation is the key to mastering any challenge. Examining the latest scientific research into the smartest ways to deal with a flood of adrenaline, increase focus, minimize negative thoughts, and optimize emotions, Psyched Up teaches you what do in the last few minutes before a major event. From focusing on improving your mood instead of over-rehearsing to employing motivating mantras rather than giving in to superstitious rituals, McGinn reveals essential tactics for remaining calm and collected when it matters most. Drawing on interviews with high-performing professionals such as retired General Stanley McChrystal, NASCAR champion driver Jimmie Johnson and legendary tennis coach Nick Bollettieri, McGinn illustrates how to develop a personal psyching up routine and reveals why introverts and extroverts might employ different methods.

DANIEL McGINN is a senior editor at Harvard Business Review where he edits the IdeaWatch and How I Did It sections. He is the host of Dear HBR, an advice podcast for workplace dilemmas and the author of two books.

A fascinating read -- Charles Duhigg * author of The Power of Habit * McGinn's strategies can create a winning pre-game routine for anyone -- Arianna Huffington * co-founder of Huffington Post * Psyched Up is an essential user's guide for ensuring you'll be your best when you take centre stage -- Katie Couric * journalist and author of The Best Advice I Ever Got: Lessons from Extraordinary Lives * I can't think of another book that's as helpful as this, whether you're shooting a free throw, taking a big test, giving a toast or on one knee proposing. Read Psyched Up before your next big moment -- Matt Mullenweg * creator of WordPress and CEO of Automatic * This book is a gift for entrepreneurs or anyone else who pitches ideas for a living -- Brad Feld * venture capitalist and co-founder of Techstars * Psyched Up provides a wonderful overview of the science and practicalities of how to perform well when it matters most -- Gretchen Reynolds * New York Times fitness columnist and author of The First 20 Minutes * A wonderful pleasure to read, Psyched Up is an expertly crafted investigation into the vibrating heart of peak performance -- Po Bronson * author of Top Dog and Nurtureshock * Psyched Up offers compelling, entertaining and well-researched advice on how to prepare for stressful situations -- Tony Hsieh * CEO of Zappos.com and author of Delivering Happiness * Daniel McGinn's Psyched Up offers that perfect combination of informative, applicable advice and page-turningly good entertainment' -- Keith Ferrazzi * author of Who's Got Your Back and Never Eat Alone *