How might focusing on what we can control work best for us? How can we strengthen those “mental muscles” for ourselves?

To all our highly valued clients and acquaintances:

For many, we seem to be experiencing an unprecedented level of stress, change and uncertainty at multiple levels in our lives. A question that I have been pondering is how best to create order (or even thrive) out of any chaos without being swept away by a seeming tidal wave of commotion.

I always like this idea of focusing on what we can control. Paraphrased, I once heard it said this way – much more importantly than what is happening in anyone else’s house is what is happening in my house.

What might it take? Discipline, structure, self-control, and self-mastery?

One of my mentors recently put it to me this way – we all have an unlimited capacity to increase our capacity. Let’s focus on expanding support for that.

There are resources emerging to help strengthen our resiliency skills to adapt – not just to bounce back, but to also bounce upwards and forward.

For perspective, another mentor shared with me that he periodically does a “media fast” to distance himself from turbulent news cycles and recenter.

I try to follow the major media like I listen to a weather report. I want to know the temperatures, the direction of the winds and the likely forecasts, so that I can stay current (in the know) and help to craft optimal strategies.

In recent years, I’ve used the metaphor of “building your ark”, so that no matter how stormy the environment seems to get, you’ll always be buoyant.

So, what are some renewal options/strategies for the balance of 2024?

To quote the best-selling 7 Habits (late author) Stephen R. Covey:

“Renewal is the principle – and the process – that empowers us to move on an upward spiral of growth and change, of continuous improvement.”

One example of renewal can be found in Jerry Seinfeld (whose career continues to be iconic), who is a 40+ years practitioner of meditation.

Here is a 4-minute video about it.

According to Jerry Seinfeld, TM helps to reduce stress and increase energy and focus. “As a standup comic, I can tell you, my entire life is concentration fatigue,” he said. “Whether it’s writing or performing, my brain and my body, which is the same thing, are constantly hitting the wall. And if you have [TM] in your hip pocket, you’re Columbus with a compass.”

For me, effective meditation is an intentional, observational, renewal practice. I think of it as a practice of stepping back from, and out of, our circumstances, as an observer. It’s like being on the bank of the river of life versus scrambling to swim in that river – a powerful observational context.

Focus on the Solutions, Not the Problems – Get and Stay Solution-Focused.

Developing a solution-focused mindset involves looking at possibilities rather than limitations and focusing on learning for growth. It can be applied in many situations, including disagreements, problem-solving, and decision-making.

Here are some tips for staying solution-focused from Wall Street Journal and New York Times #1 Bestselling Author Dr. Marshall Goldsmith, also recognized as a Top Ten Business Thinker and a top-rated executive coach.

I asked Marshall Goldsmith, at his https://marshallgoldsmith.ai/chat.

How can I stay more solution focused consistent with my core values, in the face of the seemingly endless chaos and uncertainty all around me at all levels?

Staying solution-focused amidst chaos and uncertainty is indeed a challenge, but it’s also an opportunity to demonstrate leadership and resilience. Here are some strategies that I’ve found helpful:

1. Anchor Yourself to Your Values: In times of uncertainty, your core values are your compass. They can guide your decisions and keep you focused on what truly matters. Regularly remind yourself of your values and let them inform your actions.
2. Focus on What You Can Control: There will always be factors beyond your control, but you can choose how to respond to them. Concentrate your efforts on areas where you can make a difference and let go of the rest.
3. Embrace a Growth Mindset: View challenges as opportunities to learn and grow. This mindset will help you stay solution-focused rather than getting bogged down by problems.
4. Prioritize and Simplify: Identify the most important tasks that align with your values and focus on them. Simplify your approach to reduce complexity and increase clarity.
5. Stay Flexible and Adapt: Be prepared to pivot and adapt your strategies as situations change. Flexibility is key to navigating chaos and uncertainty.
6. Build a Supportive Network: Surround yourself with people who share your values and can offer different perspectives on solutions. A strong network can provide support and inspiration when you face challenges.
7. Practice Mindfulness and Reflection: Take time to reflect on your experiences and learn from them. Mindfulness can help you stay calm and focused, even in the midst of chaos.
8. Communicate Clearly and Often: In uncertain times, clear communication is crucial. Keep your team and stakeholders informed about your plans and how they align with your core values.
9. Take Care of Yourself: You can’t be solution-focused if you’re burned out. Make sure to take care of your physical and mental health.
10. Keep the Big Picture in Mind: Remember your long-term goals and vision. This can help you stay focused on solutions that will have a lasting impact.

By integrating these strategies into your life and leadership, you can maintain a solution-focused approach that is consistent with your core values, no matter the external circumstances.

I invite/encourage you to check out our Mid-Year Brochure for 2024 

Interested in creating bigger dividends for your business??

Let’s talk.

Don.