It’s that time of year again. Chips and salsa and chicken wing supplies get dangerously low as tailgating tents fill up. Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays are booked and the ultimate fall sport is back. 

Football season. 

As I watched parts and pieces of games over the weekend, I couldn’t help but wonder what it would feel like to walk into a stadium and have thousands of people watching. Half wanting you to choke and the other half naming their first born after you. Pressure. Will you perform? Will you fail?

Most of us don’t have such public opportunities to fail, but we still face high stress situations. Whether its taking a test, giving a presentation, hosting an event, or having a one on one meeting, there’s a level of anxiety that can be present. No matter how prepared, something can always go wrong. 

How you do handle high expectations? How do you remain confident under pressure?

Be Adaptable

Even when there is a plan for every little detail, sometimes stuff happens. In those moments there is a choice, have a panic attack and focus on everything that’s wrong, or be adaptable to the change. It’s truly about your perspective (I wrote a blog about this!) But the most comforting thing to know is that as everything around you changes, Jesus doesn’t. [insert praise break here]

“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” Hebrews 13:8

Be Calm

There is an art to not revealing every emotion on your face. A lot of times it’s faking it to you feel it. Trust that your training and preparation is enough. And for that portion that didn’t prepare for…oh well, there’s always next time .:)

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7

Be Optimistic

Just breathe. About 90% (don’t hold me to this number because I literally just made it up) of the time, people have no idea what your plans are. So, assume the best. Assume that your audience, your colleagues, your boss, or whoever else are utterly clueless about what you intended to say or do.  

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9

Ultimately, pressure reveals your character.

Your character is comprised of you reactions, which are a direct reflection of your mindset and heart posture.

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