Remaining calm is essential in being able to respond flexibly. I identified that my stress response was preventing me from being calm. As I was looking for resources to learn ways to combat the stress I cam across the World Health Organization, Doing What Matters in Times of Stress: An Illustrated Guide. Below is reflection of what I have learned from the Illustrated Guide.
Stress is a normal part of life. However, stress becomes a problem when the thoughts and feelings we have hooks us and pulls us away from the values that we hold. In these moments it is important to focus, engage and pay attention better. When hooked by thoughts or feelings, you are “disengaged” or “distracted” and unfocused. And when we do things in a disengaged” or “distracted” and unfocused way, we often do them poorly, or are unable to enjoy the activity and feel dissatisfied. So, if you can learn to be more engaged, and focus better, then you will handle stress and you will be able to do important things much better. To become more focused, engaged and pay attention better practice breathing exercises, stretch, notice the things you can see, hear, taste, smell and touch, and press your feet into the ground.
In moments of stress after we have grounded ourselves, through the exercises named above, we should begin unhooking from the stressful thoughts and feeling. This is done by noticing the stressful feelings or thoughts and naming it. Thereafter you should refocus, through the aforementioned exercises, on the task that you are doing in the present.
Next it is important to act in a way that is aligned with your values. Acting in a way that aligns with my values allows me to adapt to changing circumstances, find creative solutions, and maintain a positive attitude.
The link to the World Health Organization, Doing What Matters in Times of Stress: An Illustrated Guide.
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