We all define crisis differently. For some of us crisis is something that happens daily when things get frustrating or stressful. For some of us, a crisis is something bigger, more profound – like major life changes or significant challenge. For others, a crisis is something even bigger and large-scale, beyond the personal and applies to the world around us. But here’s the thing: no matter what it means to you, it implies something difficult for all of us. So how do you stay calm in times of crisis? How do you not panic and what’s the best way to deal? Let’s take a look at some ideas for staying calm and keeping your cool even in the tensest moments of crisis.
How to Stay Calm in Times of Crisis
Take a deep breath. First and foremost, breathe. Sounds so simple, I know. But often when we think we’re handling everything, we’re standing there, holding our breath on the brink of panic. So, stop everything you’re doing, sit down and take a few deep breaths. You will feel immediately and infinitely calmer. Suddenly, you’ll have a much more level head, and you’ll be able to think clearly to start resolving the issues at hand.
Keep it positive. This is hugely important. A positive attitude can change everything about a situation. Even if you’re the only one keeping it positive, that’s OK. You’re the one keeping everyone involved from a total meltdown. Remember that your energy can affect everything happening around you and positive vibes go a long way when it comes to keeping everything cool. Stop imagining worst-case and think best-case. You got this.
Prepare for the crisis by being the best physical and emotional shape possible. You can control the way you live your day-to-day, and that means the way you take care of yourself. So keep yourself, your health, your sanity at the highest priority. When you feel good, and your emotions are level-set, you’ll handle a crisis with ease and confidence. When you’re already stressed and feeling bad, add a crisis to the mix, and you end up with a disaster on your hands. Make your health a priority.
Know what helps you level-set after a storm. When you deal with a crisis, you’re heart often races; you get sweaty, your hands are clammy, you’re panicky and unsure what’s coming next. It puts your body through a bit of emotional turmoil, and that can be tough both physically and mentally. Knowing exactly what will help calm you down is essential to returning to that calm, cool person you know you are. It could be going for a run, unwinding with a glass of wine, taking a long bath or walking the dog. No matter what it is, identify that thing that makes you feel better and make it your go-to post-crisis.
How do you deal with times of crisis?
