We all plan reasonably to avoid getting into challenging situations or trouble. But sometimes external factors, such as other people being involved, weather, traffic, missed/inaccurate/inadequate information, uncooperative responses, unavoidable circumstances, etc., can put everything in a toss.
Reworking the event partially or entirely or changing the course of action further entails added efforts, which can cause aggression, disappointment, low morale, quitting feelings, etc.
As I always say, every emotion is a part of our existence, and healthy experiences help develop our endurance. The more we reflect clearly and allow it to process (sit with it and allow it to be taken out of the system), the more we can cope well with it.
Mental agility is not always about putting on your game face; it is about being flexible enough to allow things to get out of hand, being aware of the harsh realities, and planning accordingly. Many people can perform well in other areas, even if they experience grave concerns in one aspect of their lives.
Mental compartmentalisation allows you to break yourself from one event and focus on the other with a fresh focus. Let's say you had a heated argument with your spouse, and overall, the conversation is upsetting and has been playing on in your mind. This event follows the range of emotions and thoughts. You are stuck in your head. Some would revolve around the disturbing event unless it is resolved. Some would step into another compartment, i.e., another aspect with fresh energy, work in that compartment, do reasonably well and come back to the previous compartment with a rational approach and positive energy. Instead of cribbing because it happened, think about how it can be resolved.
The Art of Decoding
Often, we are all over the place, focusing on what is said, how it was said, and when it was said, rather than pausing to think of the intent rather than words. Instead, we should focus on clarifying the gaps and engaging in conversation to resolve the matter rather than taking it as a personal attack.
What made my spouse so mad to say hurtful words? What makes my spouse insecure, or what is the background of this event that I may be unaware of? Is it the right time to take up this topic, or should I hold on for some time? One should be willing to see their perspective and that of others to come to a middle ground or win-win situation to resolve the matter and calmly explain one side.
Self-care activities include fitness routines, sleeping and eating right, stimulating conversations, having a work-life balance, staying focused on simple and essential/long-term goals, leisure activities and light-headed banter, and any activity that helps to maintain sound health and well-being. Healthy routine practices and following discipline positively impact overall health, resulting in calmness, accepting complex realities, working mindfully on them, actively engaging in a growth mindset and positive attitude, being open to perspective, etc.
Building mental agility helps develop healthy relationships, better stress management, thoughtfully dealing with setbacks, a healthy lifestyle, and creative and out-of-the-box thinking.
If you or someone you know find yourself in such a situation, please feel free to confide in our in-house counsellors Ms. Harshali Kotekar (hr2@executiveship.com) and Ms. Glenda D’Silva (welfare2@samundra.com). Rest assured all consultations are kept completely confidential.
