When the stakes are high, it’s easy to let your nerves get to you. Isn’t it strange that, out of nowhere, it seems like the pitch you’ve rehearsed for days is suddenly wiped from your memory? Or for some reason you just can't spit out that killer line you prepared mid-negotiation?
No matter how much practice you put in, performing in nerve-wracking situations can be unpredictable—after all, the rarity of these events tends to make them more intimidating than they should be.
But you don’t have to let the seriousness of high-pressure moments get the best of you. We’ve rounded up some great tips to help you remain calm, stay poised, and perform your best, even with that extra dose of nervous excitement.
-
Before you can fix the problem, first find out why we choke under pressure. (Lifehacker)
-
Sochi 2014 Olympic figure skaters share how they deal with (really high) performance pressure. (NY Times)
-
Afraid of tensing up during a big speech? Here are some easy fixes to help you stay composed. (Huffington Post)
-
Take it from West Point cadets on how they excel on command in the military. (frrl)
-
You know that practice reduces performance anxiety, but this is actually why it works. (Entrepreneur)
-
Here are some other stellar tips to maintain your poise whenever you need to. (LinkedIn)
-
Try this super simple way to trick your brain into thinking less. (The Atlantic)
-
An elite golf coach shares some tips for key pressure moments. (Ryan Estis)
Still feeling anxious? Read about other ways to perform your best below.
