[kucing]

This is really interesting. I never really think of it from their perspective. And the case of:

- either you can, just be calm and act rationally / work within reasonable limit, focus on overall productivity.

- or you won't be able to catch up anyway

makes the case much clearer. I think there would be a category "you might or might not be able to survive, depending on how much work / luck you have" might exist, but the chance to fall on that sweet spot is quite slim.

I like your idea regarding the mind game about hiding/boasting the pressure.