I suppose it's a trick of resisting the urge to stop and go back (whilst a good way of learning a tune, it's a bugger when performing it.)

It's more widespread amongst solo performers as you are in total control whereas a group carries on. I find keeping the time, whether tapping my foot or even mentally helps as the instinct to keep in time can become dominant.

Failing that, a smile, panache and claiming you meant to do that all along is a skill we all pick up along the way. Muttering "bollocks" is entertainment as well, you know....