You might have heard the term “clutch” or “clutch player.” If someone comes through in the clutch, it means that they perform well at a critical moment. Time is about to run out, the team is down, and their season depends on getting a win. Anyone can come through in a pivotal situation, but some people consistently perform better than others when the stakes are high.

Clutch players are defined by consistently performing well when there’s a lot on the line. They thrive in situations where the pressure is high and the consequences of their performance are great. Hitting a shot when your team is winning by double digits is easier than hitting a game-winning shot at the buzzer. The pressure of knowing that if you succeed you’re the hero and if you fail you’re the villain can rattle the most experienced athletes, making it difficult for them to play to their abilities.

Meeting expectations, the pressure to succeed, and the consequences of failure can be daunting whether you’re on a basketball court, or behind your desk at the office. We face difficult and important situations and decisions every day, and when the outcome isn’t as clear cut as there being a winner or a loser, it makes those decisions that much more difficult. All of these factors, and more, can influence how you handle tough situations at work, with your family, or in your marriage.

Being able to handle stress, emotions, and the pressure of daily life in a healthy way is a necessity. Emotional, behavioral, or mental issues can make life difficult, but it’s important not to let those difficulties keep you from living your life. Psychology and Counseling Associates of Northwest Arkansas provides comprehensive services in mental, emotional, and behavioral health for children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples.