What a fired football coach and a coffee giant can teach us about peak performance.
Every high performer reaches a pressure point—a moment when the weight of expectations collides with the reality of current performance. What happens next separates those who stagnate from those who rise.
Take James Franklin, the now-former head coach of Penn State.
For years, Franklin embodied the Nittany Lions’ resurgence. But after three gut-wrenching losses this season, the pressure to live up to the old Penn State standard became too heavy. The program didn’t just evaluate the losses—they evaluated the trajectory. Their decision to pivot midseason sent a clear message:
Legacy matters, but performance under pressure matters more.
Now shift to the business world.
Starbucks, the global icon, announced plans this week to close underperforming stores and cut jobs as part of a turnaround strategy. For decades, the Starbucks model was untouchable. But changing consumer habits, operational bloat, and competition created cracks in the system. Rather than holding onto its legacy, Starbucks is pivoting—trimming, refocusing, and adapting.
The Lesson: Peak Performers don’t crumble at pressure points—they pivot.
Pressure doesn’t expose weakness; it exposes whether you’re willing to evolve. Franklin couldn’t keep leaning on yesterday’s wins. Starbucks isn’t pretending its old formula still works. Both reached inflection points that demanded courageous adjustments, not comfortable excuses.
Your Peak Performance Tip:
Run a “Pressure Audit.”
This week, identify one area of your business or leadership where expectations are heavy but results have plateaued. Ask yourself:
- What legacy play am I repeating that might not work anymore?
- What small pivot could relieve pressure and create momentum?
- If I were leading like it’s a new season, not an old dynasty, what decision would I make?
Real power comes when you stop trying to be who you were and start leading toward who you’re becoming.
Final Thought
Pressure is inevitable. Collapse is optional. Champions know when to pivot.
Keep pushing,
— The Peak Performers Huddle Coaching Team
Crack the Code to Peak Performance