Did you ask about thrombolysis? We are here to deliver anxiolysis! In this first of a two-part episode of 2021, we discuss "crisis resource management" (CRM) in acute stroke - a cognitive, mindfulness, and non-technical framework for optimizing clinical performance and working in high-performing teams. CRM is a tool to master four operational domains: that of the self, teamwork, our working environment, and of course, (care for) our patient. Using CRM principles helps make us better clinicians, work more effectively in teams, and maintain a calm sense of vigilance. We re-introduce the concept of a "zero point survey" (Reid et al. 2018) as a starting point before coming on-call for a code stroke and as a tool for better self-awareness and performance. High-performing teams support good clinical outcomes at the resuscitation phase and apply to all subsequent patient care settings. Central to a high-performing team are principles of CRM and their timely application to stroke care. We review our paper in Neurocritical Care titled: "Crisis Resource Management and High-Performing Teams in Hyperacute Stroke Care" with three of the authors: Rajendram, Notario, Khosravani Crisis Resource Management and High-Performing Teams in Hyperacute Stroke Care by: Phavalan Rajendram, Lowyl Notario, Cliff Reid, Charles R. Wira, Jose I. Suarez, Scott D. Weingart & Houman Khosravani (Neurocritical Care, published in 2020) Zero point survey: a multidisciplinary idea to STEP UP resuscitation effectiveness Optimizing Crisis Resource Management to Improve Patient Safety and Team Performance