“High Stakes” explores how to thrive when the pressure is on, focusing on the psychology of pressure, decision-making strategies, and confident leadership. It debunks the myth that consistent performance under pressure is an innate talent, instead framing it as a set of learnable skills. Drawing from neuroscience, cognitive psychology, and behavioral economics, the book analyzes the effects of stress and offers actionable techniques for optimizing mental and emotional states. Discover how high-performing individuals maintain focus through techniques also used in sports psychology, and learn strategies applicable to crisis management. The book guides readers through self-discovery and skill development, starting with understanding the triggers and impact of pressure on cognitive function. It then delves into decision-making, exploring models for evaluating risk and mitigating bias. Finally, it discusses leadership principles for inspiring confidence and fostering collaboration. Based on case studies of leaders in diverse fields and interviews with high-performing individuals, “High Stakes” provides a toolkit for improving decision-making, managing stress, and leading effectively in challenging circumstances.
