I Stressed Myself Sick Over an Important Meeting, But These 6 Things Saved Me
I’m not going to lie, the hours leading up to a big meeting can feel like a ticking time bomb. My mind races with a million "what ifs," and my heart pounds like a drum. Maybe you can relate?
Picture this: I’m standing in front of a crowd the size of a small wedding, my heart pounding in my chest like a tribal drum. It’s a big presentation, and the room is filled with my boss, the big boss, and sales reps from every corner of the world. I’ve rehearsed this a thousand times, but the moment I open my mouth, it all goes horribly wrong. The words get tangled in my throat, my hands shake, and I can feel the heat of a thousand eyes burning into me.
This is what I experienced many times before I learned how to cope with my stress.
That’s why I’ve learned a few tricks from psychologists that help me chill out and get my head in the game. Here’s what I do:
- I embrace the stress. It’s natural to feel those butterflies, and it’s actually a good thing! It means I’m pumped and ready to perform.
- I write out my fears. Putting those anxieties on paper helps me figure out what’s really bugging me. Is it a fear of failure? Am I worried about what people think? Once I know the root of the problem, it’s easier to tackle it head-on.
- I ask myself some tough questions. "What’s the worst that could happen?" "What’s the best possible outcome?" Weighing the pros and cons helps me put things in perspective and realize that even the worst-case scenario isn’t the end of the world.
- I have a backup plan. Knowing I have a plan B takes some of the pressure off. If this meeting doesn’t go as planned, I’ve got other options.
- I breathe. Seriously, it’s amazing what a few deep breaths can do. I like to try the "breath hold" exercise: breathe in, hold for 7-20 seconds, then exhale. Repeat seven times. It’s like hitting the reset button on my nervous system.
- I focus on my surroundings. Instead of obsessing over the meeting, I try to notice the little details around me. The color of the walls, the sound of the air conditioning... It helps me get out of my head and into the present moment.
These simple steps have been a lifesaver for me. I hope they help you too! Remember, a little bit of stress is normal, but it doesn’t have to control you. You’ve got this!
