How to develop the mindset of a high performer with sports psychologist Dr Kirsten Van Heerden

We're often told that dealing with daily situations is simply a case of mind over matter, but very seldom are we taught skills to implement this.

Dr Kirsten Van Heerden is one of only a handful of people in South Africa to have both represented her country as an athlete and hold a PhD in the area of sport psychology. She has guided many Olympians, World Champions, and South African sports teams over their mental barriers.

In this episode, we discuss so much. From how to pick yourself up after receiving negative feedback to toxic positivity, how high performers tend to attach their sense of self-worth to their ability to execute skills,s and how mental toughness can be mixed up with mental health, which is not great for your well-being.

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Dr Kirsten Van Heerden can be contacted through the Newton Sports Agency website www.newtonagency.co.za or directly on Instagram: @drkirstenvanheerden Listen to Kirsten's podcast · Find out more about the Girls Only Project

About Something Shifted

Something Shifted is a documentary-style, narrative podcast about identity after interruption. It tells stories of life before and after pivotal moments of change, where familiar structures fall away and new ways of being slowly emerge. Hosted by South African broadcaster Sean Loots, the podcast explores grief, resilience, transformation, and the lived experience of becoming someone different after life changes unexpectedly.

These are stories of life after interruption, told with honesty, detail, and emotional depth.

Listen to more episodes

Explore more narrative stories of identity, resilience, and life transition wherever you listen to podcasts. Listen to Something Shifted: The Soundtrack on Spotify