Anxiety, fear, uncertainty, distress – the awareness of mental health issues rises as the world keeps on being turbulent. The idea of stability and safety nearly became an illusion over the past years, so instead of longing for something we can’t control 100%, we need to learn to deal efficiently with stressful, overwhelming situations.
Instead of wishing for a stable environment (external stability), we should focus on building inner stability (internal stability). Share on XHere are three steps that might help you to regain your inner stability whenever you are in a stressful, overwhelming situation.
Step 1: Stop playing the ‘blame game’
Don’t waste time looking for the scapegoat and blaming everything and everyone around you. You might do this to eliminate your own negative feelings, but it only worsens things. Instead, focus on finding a solution. By false accusations, you will only lose your team’s trust. But through solution-focused dialogues, you will act together.
Note: your deepest fear is the driving emotion behind the blame game. It’s your ‘lizard’ brain that wants to survive. So take a deep breath to disconnect from it. This way, you can consciously shift back to your higher cognitive, problem-solving skills.
Step 2: Face & ease your deepest fear
Take a deep breath and formulate your deepest fear. Face it. What is the worst thing that could happen now? Accept this worst-case-scenario. Now that you faced your deepest fear: what is the best you can make out of the situation?
For this step, use the framework I described in this article.
Note: our deepest fear has an impact on us. Do not try to push it away. It’s screaming for your attention. As soon as you face it, you will feel much better. It’s a relief. It’s the first step to gaining your power of action back.
Step 3: Trust the process & stay positive
You’ve recognized toxic behavioural patterns, faced your deepest fear and defeated your ‘lizard’ brain. This way, you were able to find the best possible solution. Now it’s time to trust your instincts, the process & the outcome.
Note: use a tool, mental training technique or other activities to strengthen your trust and a positive mindset. You can meditate, do breathing exercises, carry a lucky charm, practice positive self-talk and affirmations… anything that helps you stay positive and optimistic.
