When learning something new, we may experience certain emotions or feelings. It’s challenging to distinguish between the two, but feelings are typically more generic. For example, we may feel in control of a situation or confused. In a particular feeling state, we may be more emotional. Learning and emotions are closely linked, and research shows that the stronger our emotional response, the more invested we are in something.
When internal feelings interfere with our learning processes and ability to perform, it would make sense that external factors may have affected our ability to perform. Accelerated learning occurs when the internal atmosphere can adapt to the external pressure that’s causing internal deregulation. This is why self-regulation is so important and vital for learning and performance. A state of high arousal or low arousal can make learning and life performance difficult.
That’s why we develop internal training systems for self-regulation, so that we can learn, adapt, feel less stressed, have less cortisol in our bodies, and experience increased happiness. Our body needs an appropriate brain state for performance, and flow states can only be achieved through relaxed alertness, striking a balance between focus and relaxation. Additionally, how we feel about our self-efficacy and self-esteem can affect the way we perform and learn in life. Building positive self-regard is therefore crucial.
