In a recent conversation with sport scientists Dr. Morgan Smith and Dr. Mo Merritt, we explored the intricate relationship between metrics, mindset, and human performance. Their insights, drawn from years of working with elite athletes and extensive research, offer valuable lessons for anyone looking to improve their performance, whether in sports, fitness, or life in general.
Dr. Smith, a postdoctoral researcher at Stanford studying applied human performance, emphasizes a crucial point often overlooked in our data-driven world: "Before you check your metrics, before you check your readiness score, check in with yourself first. How do you feel?"
This simple yet powerful approach reminds us that while data can be invaluable, it shouldn't overshadow our intuitive understanding of our bodies and capabilities. As technology advances and we have access to more metrics than ever before, it's essential to remember that these are tools to support our journey, not define it.
Dr. Merritt, who works with the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee, brings a compelling perspective on mindset and learning. She shares that one of the most significant barriers to progress is our comfort with familiarity. "As adults, we've done it in the past, but it's easy to get away from those types of things as we age and we kind of settle into who we are and who we think we are."
When facing new challenges or learning new skills, Merritt suggests two primary approaches:
One of the most interesting discussions centered around how people often underestimate their capabilities. Dr. Smith shared an example of working with untrained individuals in the weight room: "They'll push the leg sled or the leg press and they'll be like, 'okay, that's it.' Like that feels hard... It's them actually learning what their body is capable of."
This revelation highlights an important truth: what feels like our limit often isn't. It's simply our current perception of what's possible, shaped by our experience, or lack thereof.
Both scientists offered valuable advice for anyone looking to improve their performance or start a new health journey:
While both experts acknowledge the value of metrics and data in performance optimization, they emphasize the importance of context. Data should inform our decisions and understanding, not dictate them. As Dr. Smith points out, "Games don't get rescheduled based on your readiness score."
The key to sustainable progress lies in finding the right balance between objective metrics and subjective experience. Whether you're an elite athlete or someone just starting their fitness journey, remember:
As we continue to navigate an increasingly data-driven world, these insights remind us that while numbers can guide us, it's our human experience, complete with its ups and downs, triumphs and struggles, that truly defines our journey to better performance and health.
Remember Dr. Merritt's powerful closing thought: enjoy the traffic. The process of creating new habits and pushing past our perceived limitations isn't just a means to an end, it's where the real growth and learning happen.
For more insights from Dr. Morgan Smith and Dr. Mo Merritt, you can find them on LinkedIn, where they continue to share their expertise in human performance and athletic development.