“The Pressure Principle is no quick-fix, sticking-plaster solution; it is a multifaceted philosophy, but its lessons are simple to apply. You’ll see benefits in the short term, certainly, and, if you commit to it fully, the long-term gains can be huge. You will see improvements. You will be better able to deal with pressure and perform at your best. ...
This book examines not only the importance of practice per se, but also how different types of practice can prepare us for the pressure environment. It explains both how a skill is learned in the first place and the most effective ways to execute it when the tension mounts. Techniques are offered to build confidence and develop a productive mindset to tackle the mental interference that might inhibit us at crucial moments in our lives. The power of the body, as well as the mind, to help us cope with stress will be explained, too. Going beyond sport, we will look at what we can learn from the Royal Marines, dolphin trainers, fighter pilots, skateboarders, car salesmen, and the world of advertising.
My hope is that anyone wishing to improve their performance in a pressured environment will be helped by this book. My message is that you are capable of achieving so much more, whoever you are. I don’t have all the answers—I too subscribe to the no-limits mindset and am always learning and keen to improve—but I am about to share the results of my experience as a teacher, a learner, and a coach to some of the best in the world in the most pressured environments imaginable.”
~ Dave Alred from The Pressure Principle
I got this book after a new friend of mine (who happens to be one of the world’s most elite athletes) pulled it off the shelf in his study and recommended it to me.
I read it as part of my deep dive back into mental toughness books as part of my work with that athlete and a bunch of other elite athletes, teams, and coaches.
Other titles in the recent binge include Changing Your Story by Bill Beswick, Pressure by Geir Jordet, The Captain Class by Sam Walker, and Belonging by Owen Eastwood. And, of course, check out the mental toughness collection in the app along with Peak Performance 101 for more.
Dr. Dave Alred MBE is an elite performance coach who works with the world’s top sports stars and teams, helping them deliver when the tension is at its most extreme.
He has a PhD in Performing Under Pressure (how cool is that?) and has worked with athletes in sports ranging from golf, rugby, and cricket to judo, polo, and soccer.
As you’d expect, the book is packed with Big Ideas and, as always, I’m excited to share some of my favorites so let’s jump straight in!
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