66 - This is The Difference Between Internal Performance and External Performance
Success depends on both internal and external performance. A pilot thrives when unnoticed, while an actor shines in the spotlight. But at their core, both require mastery of internal performance. In this episode, uncover why strengthening your internal game leads to external success.
This is The Difference Between Internal Performance and External Performance
Success isn’t always about being seen. Sometimes, the best performance is the one that goes unnoticed.
A pilot and an actor—two very different professionals—both engage in high-stakes performances. But while one aims for flawless invisibility, the other thrives in the public eye. What separates these performances, and why does it matter for your own success?
Understanding Internal vs. External Performance
Internal performance happens when excellence is expected but rarely acknowledged. Take a pilot: their job is to get you from point A to point B safely. If they do their job perfectly, you don’t even notice. There’s no applause, no standing ovation—just silent success.
External performance, on the other hand, thrives on visibility. Think of an actor like Denzel Washington. His job is to show his skill, to make an impression, to be unforgettable. His work demands recognition.
At first glance, these performances seem opposite. But in reality, they both rely on internal mastery.
Why Internal Performance Drives External Success
Here’s the key insight: No matter how external a performance appears, it always starts internally.
A great actor must master their craft behind the scenes—studying scripts, perfecting their delivery, and refining their skills—long before they step in front of the camera.
Likewise, a great leader, entrepreneur, or artist succeeds not because of what the world sees, but because of the discipline, preparation, and mindset they cultivate when no one is watching.
How This Applies to Your Life and Work
1. Mastery Happens in the Shadows – Whether you want to lead, create, or innovate, true excellence is built in the quiet moments of practice, reflection, and growth.
2. Recognition is a Byproduct, Not the Goal – The most impactful work isn’t always the most visible. Success comes from consistent, high-quality internal performance, not just public validation.
3. The Best External Performers Start With Internal Strength – When you build a strong internal foundation, external recognition follows naturally.
The Takeaway: Focus on the Work, Not the Applause
If you want to succeed—whether as a leader, creative, or entrepreneur—stop chasing external validation. Instead, focus on mastering your craft behind the scenes. The better your internal performance, the more powerful your external impact will be.
For a deeper dive into this idea, listen to today’s episode of Pattern Cognition. It might just shift the way you approach success forever.
Highlights:
00:00 Introduction: Internal vs External Performance
00:03 Understanding Internal Performance
00:16 Understanding External Performance
00:24 The Importance of Performance Types
00:25 Mastering Internal Performance
Links:
Website: https://www.sidmofya.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sidmofya/
Transcript:
Are you performing internally or externally? Here's the difference. An internal performance is like the kind of performance that a pilot does. It's best when you do not notice that they did their job. You walk on a plane, you walk off on the plane, nothing happens. That's an internal performance. An external performance is Denzel Washington in a movie.
He has to. perform externally and show us what he does. Why does this matter? I think at the end of the day, both internal and external performances are internal performances. And if you master the internal performance that takes care of the external performance as well.