Performance Under Pressure: Strategies for Executives

In today’s high-stakes world, performing under pressure is a critical skill. Whether you're leading a board meeting, making a high-profile presentation, or managing a demanding workload, staying composed under stress is what sets top leaders apart.

At KHPC, we help executives and professionals turn pressure into a powerful tool for success. Here are some strategies to help you thrive when the heat is on.

Business meeting with professionals in office setting.

Recognise the Signs

Understanding your body’s response to stress is the first step. Whether it’s a racing heart or shallow breathing, awareness allows you to manage your reactions.

Tip: Practice mindfulness to stay grounded in the moment.

Calming the Nervous System BEFORE the event

The famous ‘power pose’ might work for some people but treat it with caution. We’re trying to calm the stress response, and the adrenaline rush before a performance is the same one we have when preparing to flee or fight. So it stands to reason that the power pose, preparing to fight, is excellent if you are under-energised, but not so useful if you are trying to slow your adrenaline and calm the nerves. Instead, doing things slowly and taking slow breaths, lengthening the outbreath, will calm the heartrate and get you more present in the moment.

Reframe pressure as an opportunity

Pressure can signify trust in your abilities. Instead of seeing it as a threat, view it as a chance to excel.

Tip: Remind yourself, “I’m in this position because I’ve earned it.”

Prepare for High-Stakes Scenarios

Preparation reduces anxiety. Simulate high-pressure situations in advance to make the real thing feel familiar.

Tip: Conduct a dress rehearsal of your presentation or meeting, including potential challenges.

Business presentation for attentive audience in meeting room.

Create a Pre-Performance Routine

A consistent routine before big events can calm nerves and increase focus.

Tip: On the day, think about a physical and mental warm-up. Just a short set of exercises to get the voice and breathing going, and to get the mind focused and in the right place. Try a 5-minute visualisation of your success several times in the days before and on the morning of a task.

Reflect and Learn

After any high-pressure event, reflect on what worked and where improvements can be made to build resilience.

Tip: Keep a performance journal to track growth and reduce anxiety about future events.

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