ABSTRACT
In this chapter, we define how a performance state is broadly conceived as the consequence of a state of mind, or a way of thinking and feeling, that supports the striving toward and achievement of desired goals. The ideal performance state mediates the relationship between the practice of mental skills and task performance. We elaborate on both self-efficacy and self-regulation, which both represent a critical mediator and moderator of the relationship between mental skill use and performance. Overall, this chapter examines the adaptive processes and systems that people use to control and adjust themselves in the context of high performance.
