What I’m Thinking About:
When Tom Brady or Russell Wilson walk onto the field, we don’t see much emotion. Even when they’re losing, they stand poised – calm and focused.
All the elite performers do this. They don’t get too high or too low. They’re in ‘neutral,’ ready to execute. Regardless of the circumstances, the best know how to control their emotions, manage their mind, and perform when it matters most. Their brain focuses on the objective, not the noise.
Top athletes tune their mind to the highest level possible amidst chaos. Navy SEALs do this too. When the stakes are high, you don’t have time to focus on doubts or mistakes. You must move forward.
Compartmentalizing pressure is a skill. It requires practice and patience. Half of it is being prepared. The rest is learning how you conquer uncertainty. Some filter out noise, others bucket it away. Embrace life’s challenges with composure; test yourself under pressure. That’s how diamonds form.
Being clutch doesn’t mean increased performance under pressure. It means consistent performance under pressure. It starts with managing your mind.
Quote:
When you put an orange under pressure, what do you get? Orange juice. Because what's inside of you comes out during pressure. – Pat Riley
Links:
Russell Wilson talks about the best part of his game: staying positive (Podcast).
A Question:
How do you practice performing under pressure?
- Grant
