Published May 5, 2022

The Truth About How Anxiety Works - Dr Tracy Dennis-Tiwary | Modern Wisdom Podcast 469

Explore anxiety as an evolutionary gain with Dr. Tracy Dennis-Tiwary, who uncovers its role in preparing us for uncertainty, technology's complex influence, and how reframing this emotion can unleash creativity and performance potential.
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Episode Highlights

  • Mindset Shifts

    Changing how we perceive anxiety can significantly enhance mental health and productivity. emphasizes that anxiety is not a simple on-off switch but a spectrum, where it can transform from panic to excitement, especially in high-pressure situations like performances 1. This mindset shift allows individuals to harness anxiety as a tool rather than a hindrance. Chris Williamson2.

    This mastery of anxiety, having it, owning it, and using it, is central to sport greats and elite athletes.

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    By reframing anxiety, it becomes a signal for readiness and engagement, rather than a precursor to failure.

       

    Creativity Link

    Anxiety can be a catalyst for creativity, enhancing problem-solving and artistic expression. explains that anxiety, along with other activating emotions, can lead to more innovative and persistent thinking 3. This emotional activation encourages individuals to explore new ideas and solutions, turning anxiety into a creative advantage. She also argues that viewing anxiety as a dangerous emotion limits its potential benefits 4.

    Anxiety is a feature of being human. It's not a bug.

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    Embracing anxiety allows for a mindset that sees challenges as opportunities for growth and creativity.

       

    Performance Enhancement

    Understanding and managing anxiety can significantly boost performance. describes anxiety as a dimmer switch, where the right amount can enhance focus and readiness in high-stakes situations 1. This perspective is shared by many performers who use anxiety to fuel their drive and concentration. discusses how accepting anxiety as part of the human experience can transform it from a perceived threat to a performance enhancer 5.

    Failure is not a malfunction. Being anxious is not dangerous. It's part of being human.

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    By mastering anxiety, individuals can channel it into achieving excellence rather than being hindered by it.