High Impact Leadership- The Red Zone vs The Blue Zone

I once came across the work by John Corrigan from the Blue Brain Movement. This is a fascinating study that offers great insight into the operation of the brain in terms of our feelings and our ability to think clearly. If you could simplify the way human brain works, there are 2 distinct zones we operate in: The Red zone and the Blue zone. The red zone is the state that is based on our mammalian and reptilian brains. This state is dominant whenever we feel worried, anxious, attacked, vulnerable or scared. Even though we have the full range of emotional responses available, when we operate in the red zone, our responses typically tend to be fight or flight, that of survival. This is where we resort to damage control, minimise risk and loss. The longer we stay in this state, the further we tend to spiral into our negative thoughts and emotions, and the further we drift into survival problem. Aspects such as problem solving, critical thinking and thinking rationally seem to be a huge stretch here.

In contrast, the blue zone accesses the whole of the human brain- the human and the mammalian brain (basically the thinking brain), which gives us the ability to think creatively and rationally, problem solve, collaborate with others. Our thoughts and feelings tend to optimistic and more positive. Operating in this state supports our learning and growth, and helps us make informed decisions and handle complex tasks. Simply put, the blue zone sets us up for greater success.

Here's the interesting thing- when we go through any situation, we have the choice of which state we can operate in. We cannot operate in both zones simultaneously. We are either in the red zone or in the blue zone. If you feel like things are getting too overwhelming, if you are feeling anxious, unsafe, and increasingly pessimistic, you are operating in the red zone. If you feel like you are on top of things, if you can think of a few options to address a situation, if you are able to communicate effectively with others and find a way forward, you are in the blue zone.

If you find that you are in the red zone, here's an encouraging insight- you can move across to the blue zone. It's important to be able to recognise the state of your mind, and find ways to snap out of it. It could be taking a break, having a glass of water, going out for a walk, talking to someone you trust. We've all have gone through phases where we are firmly in the red zone. It's important to have the awareness of it, and take the simplest of actions to change our state.

As a leader, it is crucial to have an understanding of this concept- not just for our emotional and mental wellbeing, but also for others as well. You want to create conditions where people feel safe, and where they can trust others. This can often help in avoiding the red zone being triggered for people, or helping them come out of it. You'll realise that you tend to more productive and constructive conversations with others when everyone is in the blue zone. The ideas and opinions flow better, instead of coming across barriers. If you find people resisting an idea, instead of attacking or cornering them, it might be worth checking in to see what's happening, and if they are ok. A human centred approach is a great way to lift people's state and make them feel understood and supported, and build positive influence and impact in your environment.

As always, I'd like to invite you to reflect on your state of mind. Which zone do you tend to operate in mostly? If you find yourself in the red zone, do you have any strategies to move other to the blue zone? Also, how does your state of mind affect your interactions with people- do you find yourself in conflicts too often, or do you find it easier to collaborate with them?