"Fear is not real. The only place that fear can exist is in our thoughts of the future. It is a product of our imagination, causing us to fear things that do not at present and may not ever exist. That is near insanity. Do not misunderstand me danger is very real but fear is a choice."
This has a deep relevance while handling high pressure project scenarios. When the team and management is counting on you for decisions and you have no strong data to back your decision, fear kicks in. But, if we analyse it one step deeper, its evident that we fear outcomes rather than the challenge. Its similar to the gut wrench you feel when you remember that cringe proposal you did when you were a teenager! At this age, probably you are smart enough to handle the situation wisely, but your brain reminds you of that moment and it fills you with fight or flight hormones. In such situations, Bring your mind "in the moment" and make your experiences work for you and not against you. Being a project manager you are conditioned to live in the future, but decisions are taken in the present.
Does this mean not worry about the future? Yes! Don't worry, plan for the outcomes. Accept uncertainties and keep your focus on signs which the present situation gives you about the direction where the project is heading. Dr. Strange saw 14 million outcomes and out of those only 1 was a win. Focus your energy on providing the environment to your team that would make that 1 win possible. In a short time frame you may suffer but keep your target in sight, get closer to it one decision at a time and see the magic unfold!
Fear has kept our ancestors alive in the woods when a tiger attacked. This challenge isnt a blood thirsty tiger. Face it. Conquer it. One decision at a time