A Mindset For Tough Times
With each calm response, the next emotional battle gets easier
In the past, big decisions used to trigger intense stress. I worried a lot about the uncertainties about my future. But looking too far ahead was doing more harm than good. Even small problems would snowball into major stress, draining my energy. I couldn’t focus on my present experiences.
It was exhausting, not to mention unproductive.
I’ve been practicing what I call “name and tame,” for over two years.
For every challenging experience, I identify my triggers — the things that send my brain into overdrive. Once I know my enemy, I can start to disarm it. If I can stop a tough experience from spiralling, I quickly intervene.
Whether it’s a helpless feeling, stress about a future event, or emotional overload, I become very conscious of it very quickly. Once I know what pushes my buttons, I can prepare. I can avoid unnecessary exposure or plan coping mechanisms in advance.
Sometimes, detaching from a bad experience means simply taking a step back. When I feel the familiar prickle of anxiety, I pause. I take a few deep breaths, letting the oxygen flood my body and calm the rising tide. Maybe I step outside for a quick walk.
