Many of us believe that we perform at our best when the conditions and circumstances are "just right". We’re in our comfort zone, we’re on our second or third (or fourth) cup of coffee, and the wi-fi is flowing like fine wine. (Or something like that.)

But that's not true. It’s an illusion. We think that is what we need to be our best – and we make excuses about those factors not being present all the time. But the fact is, humans perform much better when the squeeze is on and the pressure is high.

Don't believe me? Watch a sporting event, particularly championship games.

Athletes play their very best when their competition is the toughest. Players always seem to find that higher gear, that next level, when they need it most. And that doesn't happen during practice or when facing less adequate opponents.

It happens when facing the most formidable foes. It happens when the circumstances are more demanding, the risks are more consequential, and the threat of defeat is brutal and final.

On the surface it doesn’t make sense, because we believe that we’d be able to put our best effort out when the conditions are “perfect”, not when someone is breathing down our neck.

But you’ve probably also heard people say, “I perform better under pressure.”

And you know what? They’re right. We all do.

But why is that?

Well, there are probably countless reasons, but today we focus on three that will make a huge difference in the way we approach work and life.

Are you ready? Let’s get started!

Full transcript can be found here: https://jimmyglenos.com/2025/08/28/youre-at-your-best-when-your-circumstances-are-the-worst/

Learn more about Executive and Leadership Coaching at https://jimmyglenos.com/

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Episode 121: You're at Your Best When Your Circumstances are the Worst

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