Friday thoughts . . .

Happy Friday!?

This week was hectic and overwhelming, to say the least. I am exhausted both physically and emotionally. Despite our extensive planning, we still encountered an eleventh-hour rush as the deadline for some critical initiatives approached. As we all know, last-minute rushes can cause stress, and when people are under stress, they have intense emotional responses. In my opinion, how one manages that stress and emotional response sets them apart.

Talking about stress, a few situations come to my mind:

• ?My younger one took her first DMV test for her learner's permit this week. They don't offer appointments, so she had to go through the long lines and hop counters. She barely made it in time for the test. Standing in front of a computer, she answered 46 questions, in about 15 mins, knowing that she had to score 83% to pass. The passing rate for first-timers is only about 45%, which added to the stress for a teenager. However, she passed. ??. – Calmness under pressure.
• One night, I was watching a cooking show on TV. It's one of those shows where contestants are given a set time of typically 45 minutes, access to a fully stocked pantry, and asked to create a meal. To add some excitement, it's a competition and a substantial prize awaits the winner. Almost everyone creates a meal, but only one can take home the award. – Creativity under pressure.
• The epitome of delivering under pressure can only be witnessed in the arena on Super Bowl Sunday. In fact, the same can be said for any sport during a high-profile final. Time and time again, we have seen how an all-star-led team either rises to the occasion or falters under pressure. What sets the winning team apart? It's their ability to exhibit leadership under pressure. – Captaincy under pressure. ?

It often feels like everyone is always short on time, just as a billionaire is always short on money. ?? I venture to bet that it’s almost impossible to find someone in corporate America who doesn’t feel stressed. Are you feeling stressed already? ?? Let's try to improve our stress management skills.

• Let’s say you’re doing an executive presentation or planning a major release. Has it ever gone exactly as planned? In every project you handle, there will always be something new, or something you have not planned for. This can cause you to panic and feel pressure. However, the key to success in such a situation lies in managing your natural emotional response and calming your nerves. With a clear mind, you will be able to think critically and constructively. – Calmness under pressure.
• ?At every level, competition is a constant presence. Our natural desire is to win, which can put us under pressure. However, by focusing on making a difference, rather than just winning, we can unlock greater potential and creativity. This is evident in our approach to customer satisfaction, design thinking, and inclusive solutions, which will ultimately drive our success. – Creativity under pressure.
• Every project will encounter some challenges along the way, but these are opportunities for those who are willing to step up and lead. Your ability to process information objectively, make prompt and wise decisions, and provide direction will set you apart. Before you know it, others will look to you for guidance in similar situations. The true character and culture of a team are revealed in how they handle adversity. – Captaincy under pressure.

I encourage you to share your approach to handling stress.

Stay safe, Stay healthy, and Stay blessed. Thank you and have a SUPER weekend.