Separation of Space: The Difference in Beating a Stressful Situation

“Don’t lose your head, it’s the best part of your body.” ~ Jimmy Snyder

It happens to the best of us. Tom Hanks used to throw up before performing. Cher had to be physically pushed out on the stage for her first concerts. Warren Buffet was too nervous to stand up and speak at his first stockholders’ meetings.

When faced with a stressful situation, we’ve all experienced the body’s natural “fight or flight” reactions, including shallow breathing, red face, tight muscles, butterflies in the stomach, and a rising sense of panic.

The next time you find yourself in a stressful situation, try this simple calming process:

Breathe Deeply: Long deep breaths will lower your blood pressure and induce a soothing effect on your body and mind

Create Space: Visualize a “Separation of Space” (SOS) between you, the stressful situation and your emotions.

Take command: See yourself with your arms stretched out, keeping the stressful situation at arm’s length where you can effectively deal with it. In this safe, calm state think of the correct behavior or attitude that will help you manage the situation successfully.

Don’t rush. Make an objective, thoughtful decision regarding how you will respond at your highest level—and then follow through.