Episode Summary

When pressure spikes, even elite leaders can keep teams steady while quietly losing their center. This episode drills into the hardest skill in leadership: leading self under pressure. Coach Mo and co-host Algie Mo break down how the punk-ass inner critic hijacks decisions, why reactive energy erodes trust, and how to install a reliable “mental pause” you can access in real time. Using the S.W.A.G. Framework—Self-Awareness, Why-Power, Aligned Action, and Grit—you will learn to recognize catabolic states, reset your physiology with breath, and reenter the moment with clarity. Expect practical rituals like gratitude reps, micro-recovery, and pause-visualize-breathe sequences you can use at your desk or on the floor. Grab the S.W.A.G. Cheat Sheet: 

 www.innerarenaleadership.com/swag_cheatsheet 

and build the habit that makes pressure a proving ground.

 Key Takeaways

• Name the voice: Spot the “inner critic” fast and shift to intention before it drives reactive decisions.
• Install the pause: Use a quick pause-visualize-breathe sequence to reset energy in the moment.
• Gratitude reps: Five one-second gratitude thoughts a day compound into calmer choices and better self-talk.
• S.W.A.G. in action: Self-Awareness to assess state, Why-Power to anchor purpose, Aligned Action to move wisely, Grit to finish strong.
• Recovery is a responsibility: Schedule simple micro-rituals that keep you trusted under stress.

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