Threat Vs. Challenge

Today I would like to introduce the concept of Threat vs. Challenge. When confronted by an obstacle a person has two options. They can perceive the obstacle as a threat or as a challenge. Their choice has a big impact on their short-term performance and long-term resilience. The mental state associated with the perception of a threat is fear of failure. Fear of failure in most cases is restrictive in nature, detrimental to short-term success, and can lead to a mental model that produces patterned stress. Studies have shown an increase in blood pressure and decreased performance outcomes.

The mind readying for a challenge focuses on acheivement. Challenge is very much in line with P3 Thinking's Possibility. Challenges differ from threats in where they fall on the motivation continuum. Challenges are linked to more internal sources of motivation and increase our committment. Studies have shown the physicological response to a percieved challenge is more in-line with aerobic exercise rather than the sympathetically charged threat state.

The best part about this skill like most of the skills we cover is that it is within your control to choose threat or challenge. See if the next time you have a difficult challenge at home, work, or the gym you are able to look at it as a challenge.