Optimizing Human Performance

This course, Optimizing Human Performance, explores how emotional intelligence competencies self-awareness, and self-regulation influence optimal performance during routine tasks and high-pressure situations. Drawing on neuroscience and research in the field of emotional intelligence research, along with performance training practices used by military and law enforcement organizations, the course explains how thoughts, emotions, and actions interact to affect decision-making, resilience, and effectiveness.

Participants learn practical techniques to manage stress, regulate internal dialogue, improve focus, and maintain optimal performance in both professional and personal settings.  Take a moment to review the learning objectives below before marking this lesson complete and advancing to the first video of our instructor, Parrish Owen Taylor.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

1. Explain the relationship between emotional intelligence (EQ/EI) and human performance.
2. Describe how the thinking brain and emotional brain influence decisions and behavior under stress. 
3. Recognize the role of self-awareness and self-regulation in maintaining optimal performance. 
4. Identify key emotional intelligence competencies and skills associated with high-performing individuals. 
5. Apply self-talk and other performance-enhancing techniques to manage stress and improve focus. 
6. Use the TEA (Thoughts, Emotions, Actions) model to evaluate and regulate personal performance. 
7. Distinguish between productive stress and distress and understand their effects on performance. 
8. Develop habits that support resilience, adaptability, and effective decision-making during problems, change, and interactions with difficult people. 
9. Apply human performance principles to both workplace and personal-life situations. 
10. Create a personal strategy for continuous improvement using emotional intelligence and self-monitoring techniques. 

This course was captured during a live training session for the National Tactical Officers Association in Nashville, TN on September 3rd, 2026.