Do leads scare you stiff? Here's how to cope.

By Allen Fox, Ph.D.

You’re ahead in the first set, or better yet, the second set. You’re two games away from victory, then one. Panic time. Does this sound familiar? You’re not alone: Most of us get more nervous when we’re ahead and about to win than when we’re behind and about to lose. Your anxiety may take different forms—a loss of focus, concrete elbow, temper tantrums—but the outcome will be the same: a blown lead.

There’s a reasonable explanation for this. Even though a set or match is within reach, we still know that victory is uncertain. We fear our opponents may wriggle free and snatch away the win. Fortunately there are steps we can take to avoid a disastrous finish.

First, be prepared for the pressure. Logic rather than emotion must run the show. This means striving to execute, as best you can, the game plan that gave you the lead in the first place. Unfortunately, when you’re under pressure this isn’t easy. If you’re nervous, it’s difficult to strike your strongest ground strokes or your biggest serves. Be patient and push your game to the top of your comfort zone, but not above it. This may require spinning in a few first serves rather than going for aces, or hitting a few extra strokes before going for the kill. If your crosscourt backhand is your most natural shot, stick with it for a few extra balls before attempting a down-the-line winner.

Second, make an effort to drive thoughts of winning or the score out of your mind. As the finish line gets closer, you might get that now-or-never feeling, which makes the next few points or games seem overly important. Counter this by telling yourself that you’ll have other opportunities to finish even if you don’t do so immediately. Instead of giving one point more importance than another, make every point feel the same. Concentrate on your rituals, like bouncing the ball or stepping over the lines, to help you relax and take your mind off winning.

Finally, reduce the stress of your lead by slowing down, moving between points at a deliberate pace, and managing your breathing. When a point ends, close your eyes and take a deep breath. Hold it for a second or two and exhale. Take deep, measured breaths as you walk into position. Before starting the next point, put yourself in a positive, aggressive frame of mind. Keep your thoughts simple and optimistic. These exercises help keep your mind occupied with useful thoughts and away from stressful ones about the score and winning. Above all, try to enjoy the competition.

If you do choke and make errors, it’s important to realize that you’ve done nothing horrible or abnormal. Don’t get down on yourself or think you’re a loser. Realize that nerves come and go, and though they may cost you a few points, you can still win the match if you don’t lose heart.

Former Wimbledon quarterfinalist Allen Fox, Ph.D., wrote The Winner’s Mind: A Competitor’s Guide to Sports and Business Success.