1. Prioritise self-care: Ensure you’re getting enough sleep, eating well, and exercising regularly. A healthy body supports a calm mind.
2. Develop a pre-pressure routine: Just as athletes have pre-game rituals, create a short routine to centre yourself before high-stakes situations. The All-Blacks cannot remove pressure, so they prepare for when it arises.
3. Practice mindfulness: Regular mindfulness or meditation practice can improve your overall ability to stay present and calm.
4. Reframe your perspective: Try to view pressure situations as opportunities for growth rather than threats.
5. Prepare thoroughly: Being well-prepared can significantly reduce anxiety in high-pressure moments.
6. Learn from others: Observe how successful leaders in your field handle pressure and adapt their strategies to your own style.
By regularly reflecting on your responses to pressure and actively working on staying calm, you can significantly enhance your effectiveness as a leader. Remember, the goal isn’t to eliminate stress entirely, but to develop the ability to respond to it in a measured, focused way. With time and practice, maintaining a blue head will become an integral part of your leadership approach.
