Tip #25: High Stakes

High stakes have consequences that will severely change the protag's life. The decisions made have far-reaching consequences and failing here will change who that protag is. Common high stakes include choices where the protag must make a sacrifice about something they care deeply about... It's about how that choice and the consequences of that choice will irrevocably change the protag forever.

Given example:  choosing to walk away from someone you love because it's the only way to save their life.

http://storyflip.blogspot.com/2010/12/up-up-and-away-raising-stakes.html