Don't worry.... about a thing...

People often point out that I don't seem to get stressed. And it's true… it could be due to the fact that I'm a very positive person or that it's just in my nature to stay calm, however I'm currently reading the book 'The Chimp Paradox' and I now believe I don't get stressed because I'm happy making decisions.

One of the items in the book is about the natural instinct that we all have, which is; when we are faced with an uncomfortable situation or decision we either Fight, Flight or Freeze.

For example, if we're asked to do something that stretches us out of our comfort zone (see my blog Oh Pants!) a lot of people will say no which is the 'flight'. Or you disagree with what someone is saying and you end up having an argument with them which is the 'fight'. Or you're put on the spot and you completely forget what you wanted to say which is the 'freeze'.

So, I've heard of fight, flight or freeze like many of you probably have but the new and interesting bit to me is the concept that if you don't carry out one of these motions, and therefore don't make a decision on what you're going to do, the indecision causes adrenaline to be produced, which, when coupled with a difficult situation leads to anxiety and therefore makes you feel stressed.

My top tip if you don't like making decisions at work is to practice decision making at home when the outcome really doesn't matter, as the more you do it the more natural it will become. 

So the next time you're asked if you fancy an Indian or Chinese take away, don't say you don't mind…. just make a decision and answer. This will then help you to become more comfortable making decisions which in the long time will cause lower anxiety and therefore less stress for you…


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