How are you managing your stress? Pressure is increasing everywhere we look in life. How about this week, two NFL coaches admitted to the hospitals for stroke and heart conditions in which everyone is attributing to stress. Another executive coach and I were talking two weeks ago and he told me in a week’s time, he had three executives from one team taken to the hospital for chest pain. This team was under the gun for a product launch date which was rapidly becoming impossible with an unwavering board of directors.
Just this morning I received an email from an executive I have been coaching. His current task is to build a team; while at the same time, manage two projects on two different continents with a 6 hour time difference. Three weeks here and then three weeks there; all while keeping up with both projects regardless of where he is physically.
Below is a part of what I emailed back to him to encourage. Perhaps many of you may also need the same encouragement:
Hi Alan,
Thank you for the update. Be encouraged in that at least you are aware that you have not had an opportunity to apply all that we have been discussing, awareness is progress. Also, the fundamental changes you are making take time. I wish it was just a matter of understanding the concepts of becoming a level 5 leader and unleashing talent around you…smile! It’s the actual doing part in the midst of the normal day to day fires and new fire fights on two fronts that are adding additional challenges to your progress and stress in your life. Be encouraged and remember to have fun, take time for your family, exercise, eat well, and get plenty of rest.
Here are a few tips from Dale Carnegie on controlling stress and maintaining emotional control that might help:
1. Live in “day-tight” compartments. Maybe hour tight…
2. Ask yourself, “What is the worst that can possibly happen?” Then prepare to accept the worst…. then try to improve on the worst
3. Get all the facts – then take action
4. Don’t fuss about trifles
5. Use the laws of averages to outlaw your worries
6. Cooperate with the inevitable
7. Don’t worry about the past
8. Fill your mind with thoughts of peace, courage, health and hope.
9. Create happiness for others
10. Do the very best you can… and no more.
Onward!
John Rodgers