A “pre-routine” you can perform before a stressful situation prevents you from becoming distracted, keeps you focused, and puts you in the “zone.”
Here are tips for creating your own stress-reducing routine:
Firstly, remember to keep it short and do it immediately before the stressful event.
- Include a mental component (anticipating the types of problems your about to face, review key points of the event, etc.)
- Include a physical component. You can breathe deeply, to center your mind, do jumping jacks to get your blood pumping, power pose, etc.
- Visualize yourself going through the stressful situation and succeeding.
- Add a word or phrase that makes you feel empowered. We commonly say to ourselves “you can do this.” This is exactly what I’m talking about. Say something that makes you feel empowered and confident.
Slow down.
When you’re in a high-pressure situation, it’s natural to speed up your thinking and movements. This often leads you to acting before you’re ready. Instead, make sure you slow down. Something like deep breathing helps this.
Talk to someone.
Telling someone else about the pressure you’re feeling has been proven to reduce anxiety and stress.
Sharing your feelings lets you examine them, challenge their reality, and view a pressure situation in a realistic manner.
Leave a Reply