The Physics of Pressure
Pressure isn't just a feeling; it's a constraint on optionality. As pressure rises (liquidity drops, deadlines tighten), your "Solution Space" shrinks.
Time Compression
You stop optimising for the best outcome and start optimising for the fastest exit from pain.
Information Tunneling
You ignore disconfirming evidence and seek data that validates your panic.
Pressure = Stakes รท Time
When time approaches zero, pressure approaches infinity.
The only way to reduce pressure is to buy time or lower the stakes.
What's Your Decision Mode?
Select the statement that best fits your current state.
"I am fighting fires all day. I have no time to think about next week."
"I have too much data but can't pull the trigger. I'm afraid to make the wrong move."
"I am aware of the risks, but I am following a structured plan."
The 3 Protocols
Separate Fact from Sentiment
Write down what is mathematically true (cash balance, signed contracts) vs what is fear/hope (sales pipeline, "promising talks"). Only math pays bills.
Define the "Kill Criteria"
Decide in advance what failure looks like. "If we don't have $50k in the bank by Friday, we cut the marketing budget." This removes emotion from the moment of execution.
Shorten the Loop
Stop planning for Q4. Plan for Friday. In high pressure, weekly or even daily OODA loops (Observe, Orient, Decide, Act) are required.