Struggling? A Change in Approach May Be Needed-Consider Pressing a New Option
In the hustle and bustle of modern life, feelings of being overwhelmed are all too common. But what if we've been approaching the problem from the wrong angle? A potential reframe in coaching suggests that there might be a middle way, something right in front of us that hasn't been noticed, or a small action that could help us feel less stuck.
This idea is echoed in the realm of leadership, where the microwave metaphor is used to illustrate how we often default to the same strategies and reactions, overlooking other options. Earth's spinning faster serves as a reminder that more hours are not the solution to feelings of being overwhelmed. Instead, we need more space and a broader approach to life.
Cognitive narrowing, a survival instinct where stress shrinks the field of mental vision, is another factor that contributes to our feeling stuck. This narrowing leads to fewer options when we're feeling overwhelmed, making it harder to find a way out. But the hard truth about being an adult is that things will get hard, and the opportunity lies in assessing the situation from a higher, elevated level.
So, how can we navigate these overwhelming situations? Building strong social support networks, practicing mindfulness and stress reduction techniques, setting clear boundaries, engaging in regular physical activity, prioritizing self-compassion, and seeking professional counseling are all practical strategies beyond time management.
Letting go of either/or thinking can also help in managing overwhelming situations. Recognizing cognitive narrowing opens the door to thinking differently, allowing us to find new ways of coping and thriving. Asking questions like "What's making things especially hard today (this week, month)?", "If something is upsetting me, what is it about this situation in particular? What's underneath it?", and "What's the next right thing to do?" can be helpful in reflection.
Dr. Rina Koshkina, a results-oriented leader and certified executive coach, invites her clients to notice the structure of their thinking and sit with the realization of its two-dimensional nature. Through coaching, clients are helped to find and test "other buttons" as new ways of thinking, responding, or leading that they didn't realize they had access to. Dr. Koshkina uses practical tools to help others perform at their best.
In conclusion, managing the psychological and emotional toll of overwhelming workloads requires a multi-faceted approach. By recognizing cognitive narrowing, letting go of either/or thinking, building strong support networks, practicing self-care, and seeking professional help when needed, we can navigate the challenges of modern life with more ease and grace.
Forbes Coaches Council, an invitation-only community for leading business and career coaches, is a testament to the growing recognition of the importance of coaching in navigating the complexities of the modern world.
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