top of page

Mentalization-Based Performance

When a human and a dog join in attention, they are able to read each other's intentions, to a certain extent. Whether a dog takes our mental states into consideration we can only speculate, but as humans, we definitely think about what is going on inside the minds of others.​​​​ This is called theory of mind reasoning, and it is this "mentalizing" ability that best captures what it is to be a sentient human.

 

Mentalization is the most powerful social tool that we have at our disposal to understand ourselves and others, and to address fundamental performance issues.

What is holding me back?​​

Vague objectives?

Lack of motivation?

Gaps in skills?

Inefficient self-management?

Why is my team underperforming?​​

Communication breakdowns?

Collaboration issues?

Lack of clarity in roles and responsibilities?

Conflict and morale issues?

Why is my organization underperforming?

Misalignment of goals and strategies?

Failure to align resources with needs?

Leadership shortcomings?

Resistance to change, diversity and inclusivity?​​

LOGO 2023.png

WELCOME

We specialize in mentalization-based performance

Understanding yourself and others requires a true mentalistic approach, which means that you take, gain, shift and shape perspectives based on mental states, such as desires, beliefs and intentions, instead of non-mentalistic shortcuts, especially at times when situations are confusing, ambivalent, or consequential.

​Our clients need to use a true mentalistic approach as they perform in social environments where understanding, explaining and predicting behavior are critical for success.

We operate in the following systems

Individual System (Personal Performance)

The focus is on enhancing core self-evaluations (CSE) (self-efficacy, self-esteem, emotional stability and internal locus of control) as well as skills-based coaching in areas such as leadership, interpersonal skills, and time management.

Team System (Group Dynamics)

In this system the focus is on building collective mental understanding and strength to enhance cooperation and facilitate conflict resolution. 

Organizational System (Workplace/Institutional Performance)

The focus here is on shaping organizational culture, fostering leadership, and creating mentally healthy, high-performance environments. 

Societal System (Broader Social Context)

In this system the focus is on addressing external pressures and cultural expectations that impact performance.

Support System (Interpersonal Networks)

Here the focus is on connecting with and supporting coaches, mentors, leaders, managers, peers, etc. 

Six key outcomes that drive success

6
Performance
Improvement
Outcomes

1

Strengthens Leadership & Social Intelligence

  • Leaders who mentalize can understand and manage their emotions while also empathizing with their teams.

  • It promotes authentic leadership, where employees feel heard and valued, leading to higher engagement.

  • Helps leaders anticipate team dynamics and proactively address conflicts.

2

Enhances Communication & Team Collaboration

  • Mentalization fosters active listening and perspective-taking, improving teamwork and reducing misunderstandings.

  • Encourages constructive feedback by considering how others will receive it.

  • Improves the ability to handle difficult conversations with empathy and clarity.

3

Improves Conflict Resolution & Workplace Relationships

  • Professionals who mentalize don’t take disagreements personally; instead, they seek to understand underlying motivations.

  • Helps teams navigate stress and pressure without escalating tensions.

  • Strengthens trust, which leads to a more cooperative and innovative work environment.

6

Creates a Positive Workplace Culture

  • Leaders and employees who mentalize contribute to a psychologically safe work environment, where people feel comfortable expressing ideas.

  • Encourages diversity of thought and inclusivity by fostering curiosity about different perspectives.

  • Reduces workplace toxicity, making teams more motivated and productive.

5

Increases Adaptability & Resilience

  • Mentalization fosters self-awareness, making professionals better equipped to handle uncertainty and change.

  • Helps in stress management, preventing burnout by recognizing emotional triggers early.

  • Encourages a growth mindset, where challenges are seen as learning opportunities rather than threats.

4

Boosts Decision-Making & Problem-Solving

  • Understanding different mental states allows for more strategic and well-rounded decisions.

  • Prevents bias and impulsive reactions, leading to more thoughtful and sustainable business strategies.

  • Helps in negotiation and persuasion, as professionals can anticipate stakeholders' perspectives and concerns.

Our approach has the following impact

Personal/Corporate

Social Agency and Agentic Power

Our approach enhances our client’s ability to initiate and maintain action plans, while acting independently of the constraining power of social structure.

Personal/Corporate Psychological Safety

Our course of action also promotes psychological safety: the safety to take risks, to express ideas, to raise questions and concerns, and to admit mistakes — all without fear of negative repercussions.​

Personal/Corporate

Social embeddedness

Additionally the aim of our approach is to enhance social embeddedness by finding trustworthy and competent affiliative partners, by enabling early detection of, and social distancing from, dishonest or malevolent actors and to limit unethical competitive behavior.

Personal/Corporate

Effective Intentional Communication

Finally, our methodology aims to enhance purposeful and strategic communication that is fundamental to our client’s professional existence and success. 

©2018-2025 Center for Applied Theory of Mind - info@appliedtom.com

bottom of page