How to exhibit better character in moments of stress
When was the last time you lost your cool? Maybe you've been under a lot of stress juggling all the things? Perhaps you've been frustrated that a team member can't take action quickly or you and your team have been stretched for resources? All of these situations can put us on the verge of exploding.
From time to time, in moments of stress, you may say something in hindsight that you regret afterwards. Our words have the power to heal or harm. We are not perfect human beings, but I encourage you, especially in moments of stress, to look out for how you speak to others, and the tone you're using and the words you're choosing.
Whenever we don't mindfully choose how we talk to each other, either to those we love or those we work with, it has rippling effects. Don’t worry it happens to the best of us! But if you often find yourself regretting the things you said or your actions whenever you're stressed, now might be the time to reflect on how to pause and do things differently.
Below are some thought starters to help you reflect.
Do my words need filtering?
Is there anything that you actually don't need to say?
What is the intention around what I'm saying?
Is this to hurt somebody else? Is this to let them know that you're hurting? Is this to provoke a reaction?
Is this something I really need to say right now?
Can it wait? Maybe there is a better time?
Would I like to be spoken to this way?
How can we treat others in the ways we would like to be treated?
Sometimes we can feel the need to rush and blurt out every single word that comes to mind. We all have a choice of the words we can use, so it's up to us to use words that promote compassion and empathy. When we're not mindful of our choice of words, it means we haven't listened to the other person properly and perhaps the negative gremlin in our head is louder. It's important to pay attention and listen to understand, not just to reply. Give people the chance to explain, apologise or articulate themselves better.
Time is a great healer and some of the most hurtful words over a heated conversation can be rectified with space, awareness and time. We don't know what other people are going through, so be careful with your words and actions.
Do you want to know how you can reduce stress and anxiety to exhibit better character? I invite you to our masterclass for this month so you can fine-tune how to better cope with stress and lead others around you with deeper vision, commitment and intentionality. Our Be Happy First programme is going live soon to help you reduce stress and anxiety.