Slow Down a Rushed Moment – 30 day challenge
We feel this need to get from point A to point B as quickly as possible. A self created frustration that adds to our stress.
Unfortunately it’s a habit that’s hard to break. There is this need to create tension, even if it means going against what we think we need. You may think you want to relax, but you can’t because the moment is too important. Isn’t that what you tell yourself when you’re rushing to pick up your child at school or on your way to work? You need to be at point B right now and you’ll worry yourself until you get there.
This technique isn’t wrong, but overdoing it is. You need that tension in order to stay alert and make good decisions, but you don’t need to be excessive about it. When you create anxiety, fear and worry that makes any experience more stressful.
You need to find your stress balance, otherwise you’ll keep creating pain. You can learn to relax in a rushed moment by applying these steps.
Step one: Notice your stress level.
You may think that this is easy, but a lot of people would rather ignore it until they get to point B. You should try observing the people in your life. It’s easier to see how other people react to a stressful situation than it is to watch yourself. When they start a project, do they grit and bear it until it’s over? When cleaning the bathroom before guests arrive, mowing the grass or working on a report, do they get through it and come out the other end with knots in their neck and an upset stomach? If they could become aware of their stress level, they could do something to remedy it.
Step two: Find the right pacing.
You may be working so hard that you get lost in your work and after a couple of hours you’re done. By pushing hard and fast you may have gotten it done in, three hours, but you could have gotten it done in three and a half hours with two fifteen minute breaks. It’s up to you to make this choice. Many jobs will allow for this type of pacing. If you can’t take a break because you’re on a deadline, then slow down the tempo of your activity by just 10%. This is difficult because most of us have only one speed when we work, and that’s why I prefer to take a few extra bathroom breaks and a few moments to calm down my mind. The best way to slow down your pacing is by creating a circumstance in which you are okay with not meeting your deadline and you have to go to plan B. If you can learn to accept plan B, then you’ll probably feel okay with slowing down. This mental tool can be used to create a buffer between you and your stress. When I have a deadline I have to meet I work hard, but I allow myself to feel more relaxed because I know that I can fall back on plan B and still be satisfied with my effort.
Let’s say you are a waiter or stock trader and you don’t have time to slow down your pacing; then you have to decide if the work is right for you. Many people can handle a fast-paced life; they usually burn out a lot quicker, but at least they enjoy it while they’re in it.
Step three: Relax with this pacing.
You’ve found a new level of pacing that you are comfortable with, so now you need to relax with it. The hardest part is staying with this pacing. This takes focus and constant reminders to stay relaxed while you do the work. The best indicator that you are picking up the pace is your breath. When your breathing becomes more shallow and faster, you are probably enduring more stress. When this happens, slow it down and find the rhythm of your old pacing. Try to notice something that you like about the situation. Redirecting your thoughts toward something positive will help you get back on track with your slower pace.
When you take the time to reset your pacing you can learn to relax in almost any situation that causes stress. Try these techniques next time you’re working or stuck in traffic. You’ll probably fall back into your old pacing, but over time you’ll slowly adapt. Try the “slow down in a rushed moment” 30 day challenge and you’ll eventually figure out how to relax when things around you are moving quickly.
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Karl @ December 31, 2007