> Except in very special circumstances (devrel, prod system admin, startup first hires) the ability to think clearly under pressure isn't key to success as a de

> Except in very special circumstances (devrel, prod system admin, startup first hires) the ability to think clearly under pressure isn't key to success as a developer. Even pressure comes in many forms. When your future and career is on the line and you're being judged by a bunch of strangers, it can feel very very adversarial. Instead of having the interviewer's trust, you have the anxiety that comes from the mere thought that they're looking out for all your mistakes and failures. They're doubting you, out to get you. (Even if they weren't, that's how many people often feel) By contrast, you can have immense pressure in production when shit is on fire and you got a sudden unexpected hard deadline and your team & customer is relying on you. How this feels depends on many factors but it can definitely feel more like being a comrade in battle (and the hero of the day). It can even be energizing. Usually, you have the team's trust and support here. It might be stressful as heck, yet the total opposite of adversarial. It's kind of a big deal. I would never want to work in an adversarial environment, I don't think it's healthy for anyone. But a bit of stress here and there can help maintain a good pace and make the work more satisfying.