Why do we choke under pressure?Why do we choke under pressure?
All In The Mind
The siren has sounded. The scores are even. A footy player has one final chance to kick an easy goal to get his team into the finals. He's right in front of the goals. He lines up. Kicks. Misses. The pressure of such a moment was phenomenal, and the player choked under it. So what happens in the brain during such intense periods? Why can some people remain calm while others can't handle it? This episode first aired in July 2024. Guests: Caroline Anderson Performance psychologist Lead psychologist for the Paris 2024 Australian Olympic Team Dr Chris Mesagno Senior lecturer in sport and exercise psychology, Victoria University Louise Potter Footballer and Darebin Falcons legend Mary Spillane Clinical psychologist Credits: Presenter: Sana Qadar Reporter/Producer: Belinda Smith Producer: Rose Kerr, Petria Ladgrove Sound engineer: Russell Stapleton To view the transcript for this episode, head to its original webpage. You can catch up on more episodes of the All in the Mind podcast with journalist and presenter Sana Qadar, exploring the psychology of topics like stress, memory, communication and relationships on ABC Listen or wherever you get your podcasts.
29:32•21 Feb 2026
Why Some People Choke Under Pressure
Episode Overview
- Choking occurs when anxiety increases and affects performance.
- Understanding emotions can help enhance rather than hinder performance.
- Mindfulness and visualisation are effective strategies for managing pressure.
- Anxiety can be reframed as a tool for better performance.
- Self-focus and distraction are key factors in why people choke.
“"It's our actions and ability to focus in the moment that predicts outcomes and performance."”
How do people cope with the challenges of staying calm under pressure? This episode of 'All In The Mind' tackles the fascinating subject of why some individuals choke under pressure while others seem to thrive. With a blend of scientific research and personal anecdotes, the episode features Caroline Anderson, a performance psychologist, and Dr Chris Mesagno, a senior lecturer, who share their expertise on the psychological mechanisms behind choking.
The episode kicks off with a relatable story of a footy player missing an easy goal, setting the stage for a deeper dive into the brain's response to high-pressure situations. Caroline Anderson, who once felt the intense pressure as an Olympic athlete, now helps others manage similar situations. She emphasises the importance of understanding emotions and using them to enhance performance rather than hinder it.
Dr Chris Mesagno discusses how anxiety can lead to decreased performance, highlighting the self-focus and distraction models as key reasons athletes choke. The conversation extends beyond sports, illustrating how these concepts apply to everyday life challenges, from public speaking to job interviews. Listeners are left with practical strategies for managing pressure, such as visualisation techniques and mindfulness practices.
The episode encourages us to rethink how we view anxiety, suggesting that it can be a tool for better performance if understood correctly. So, next time you're under pressure, remember these insights and see if they help you keep your cool.
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