She also tackles the challenging yet rewarding task of transforming behavioral science insights into actionable interventions. She illustrates how such books can significantly simplify complex topics for the layperson. Upon the suggestion of her father, she discovered the fields of cognitive science and neuroscience through popular science books. She shares her personal experience of finding a new identity after a career-ending injury halted her passion for violin at the age of 15. Shankar advocates the importance of grounding oneself in the activities that invigorate him as a means of safeguarding mental wellbeing in competitive settings.

She recounts an incident of spotting Itzhak Perlman, the virtuoso violinist, at the airport with his Stradivarius violin, which had its own first-class seat, as a stark reminder of the significance of music.ĭr. She also reflects on the pressure and difficulty of maintaining the joy of music in such a competitive setting. Maya credits her mother's determination for helping her secure an audition with a prominent teacher at Juilliard, which led to her admission. Maya Shankar, a Juilliard-trained violinist, shares her journey into the esteemed institution and the rigorous environment she faced. They mention intrinsic motivation and the possible detrimental effects of rewards on it.ĭr. Shankar, then, shares a persona story from her early life, when her parents' encouragement of her love for violin eventually led her to Juilliard, the most competitive music institution. Shankar recounts the incredible story of Reginald Dwayne Betts, an esteemed scholar who composed a thousand poems during his nine-year incarceration, inspired by a book titled The Black Poets. Then, they discuss the science of quitting and its role in forming new aspects of our identity. Their conversation turns to the idea of awe, defined as an overwhelming sense of grandeur demanding mental adjustment, arguing that it can be elicited through music, interactions with animals, and the study of neuroscience, offering potential for delightful and engaging experiences.

They propose that this perspective could lead to feelings of embarrassment and a sense of rigidity around self-identity. Shankar discuss the topic of essentialism, the notion that people possess fixed attributes. Shankar explores the transformation of identity during adolescence and teenage years, suggesting that it is during this time that young individuals wrestle with their identities, striving to find their unique selves beyond imposed constructs. Finally, they underscore the need to link one's identity more to their motives rather than their actions.ĭr. The duo also scrutinizes the scientific underpinnings of emotions, discussing when these should or shouldn't direct decision-making. Shankar presents scholarly findings on identity, along with practical tools for evaluating goals and emotions. Their conversation revolves around how our identities are primarily shaped by our activities and interpersonal relationships, as well as the influence of our ambitions on our self-perception. Maya Shankar, a cognitive scientist, delve into the intricacies of identity formation, goal setting, motivation, and strategic planning.

Dr maya shankar and jimmy li