Richard Duffy says the squad is aware of the new challenges posed by their lofty league position.
The Notts captain revealed manager Kevin Nolan has spoken to the players about adapting to the situation they find themselves in after a strong start, which has left them second in the Sky Bet League Two table after 14 games.
"The manager has been on to us," the defender revealed ahead of the trip to Carlisle United.
"He's said whoever we play against will be our toughest game of the season because they will raise their game with us being near the top of the table, and that we have to raise our own game even further to combat that.
"We're not stupid enough to think we can win every game or perform to a level which is acceptable every time. Sometimes you will slip below it for whatever reason, but we have to get back on it this Saturday.
"We've just lost at Crewe and it's vitally important we don't follow it up with another defeat."
Carlisle have won just one of their seven home outings in Sky Bet League Two so far this season and Duffy is hoping to use that to Notts' advantage.
"When you go away from home you have to try and turn the home crowd against their team because it makes it tough and puts their players under pressure," he said.
"When teams aren't 1-0 up at home after 15-20 minutes and then a pass goes astray you hear a few groans in the crowd and things can get a bit hectic.
"We have to turn it into a horrible game and keep them on the back foot."
Click here to watch Duffy's pre-match press conference on iFollow.