Mastering the Mind: Transforming Panic into Productive Calm

In my role as the Executive Assistant to the CEO, I've often found myself in situations where immediate action felt like the only option. The urgency to solve problems quickly or the pressure from urgent commands could easily trigger a sense of panic. While this instinct sometimes led to quick fixes, more often, it resulted in new problems. It's through these experiences that I learned the crucial lesson of taking time to think and calm down before making decisions.

Understanding the Instinct to Act Immediately

When I realized this was my challenge and decided to overcome it, I did some online research and sought suggestions from others. What I learned was that our brains are wired to respond to immediate threats, a trait that was invaluable for our ancestors but can be a hindrance in a modern workplace. The fight-or-flight response can trigger hasty decisions that are not always in our best interest. This is particularly true for those of us who are driven by an instinct to solve problems quickly.

The Flaws of Panic-Induced Actions

Acting in panic often leads to errors that compound the original problem. For executive assistants, making a rushed decision can have significant consequences. It's essential to recognize that while swift action feels productive, it’s not always the most effective approach.

Why Traditional Methods Sometimes Fail

Common advice like counting backwards from ten to one in moments of panic doesn’t always work—at least it has not worked for me—because it requires a level of calm that is hard to achieve in the heat of the moment. When panic strikes, it can feel impossible to shift gears into a calm counting exercise.

Harnessing the Power of the Subconscious Mind

Here’s where my beloved mentor Siddhi Joshi’s advice made a transformative impact. By commanding your subconscious mind from your conscious mind, you can train yourself to remain calm. It’s about making a deliberate, repeated affirmation: “I am calm, composed, and in control. I have the patience to think clearly and make thoughtful decisions. Every situation can be approached with a calm mind, and I trust myself to find the best solutions.”

By consistently reinforcing these beliefs, your subconscious starts to align with them, reducing the instinct to panic and allowing for more thoughtful, measured actions.

The Science Behind It

Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) suggests that the language we use influences our mental state and behavior. Research has shown that positive affirmations can significantly impact our stress levels and cognitive function. A study published in the journal Social Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience found that self-affirmation activates brain systems associated with self-processing and valuation. This means that affirming positive attributes about yourself can actually change how your brain processes stress and decisions.

Emotional Intelligence and Self-Regulation

Emotional Intelligence (EI) plays a crucial role in managing panic and stress. Daniel Goleman, a pioneer in EI, highlights the importance of self-regulation, which involves managing your emotions and impulses. By developing a high EI, you can better navigate the pressures of your role without succumbing to panic.

Practical Steps to Implement

1. Daily Affirmations: Start your day with positive affirmations. Remind yourself that you are calm, patient, and capable of making thoughtful decisions.
2. Mindfulness Practices: Incorporate mindfulness techniques like deep breathing and meditation to maintain a state of calm.
3. Reflective Thinking: Before reacting, take a moment to reflect. Ask yourself if immediate action is necessary or if taking time could lead to a better outcome.
4. Positive Framing: Follow the NLP pattern by framing situations positively. Instead of thinking “I must act now,” consider “I will take a moment to think and then act decisively.”

Conclusion

Transforming panic into productive calm is not just about changing actions but about altering the mindset that drives those actions. By commanding your subconscious mind with affirmations and practicing emotional intelligence, you can navigate high-pressure situations with grace and effectiveness. This shift not only enhances the performance but also contributes to a healthier, more balanced work environment.

My learning was that what we speak about ourselves is what we become. Embrace positivity, practice patience, and watch as your mind aligns with your calm, decisive nature