Don’t let the fear of the time it will take to accomplish something
stand in the way of your doing it. The time will pass anyway;
we might just as well put that passing time to the best possible use.
– Earl Nightingale
Do you find yourself spiraling out of control upon occasion? Is your brain in a “yes/no” battle where your eyes dart back and forth between projects and you just can’t attain clarity on anything in front of you?
Guess what? Your brain is fighting Saber Tooth Tigers. You’ve gone into the fight/flight/freeze mentality response that emanates from of the reptilian section of your brain. This reaction is not helpful for battling the challenges facing you today and it is a big, fat time waster.
Why? Because when the reptilian part of your brain takes control, it bypasses the cerebral cortex–the thinking part of your brain! This means your brain is sending all of its powerful energy to your extremities in preparation for survival. You guessed it, this has your blood rushing to war against your enemies or to flee as fast as your feet will carry you or to freeze in the hopes of remaining unnoticed. Umm? Can you think of the last time one of these responses was appropriate to the challenges you’re facing?
Stop. Close your eyes. Now, take a deep, calming breath. And then, start declaring this mantra, preferably aloud; but if others can hear you and will think crazy thoughts about you, do it mentally:
I have more than enough time to complete everything I need to accomplish today.
I have more than enough time to complete everything I need to accomplish today.
Keep saying this mantra, until your brain stops spiraling; and the decision portion of your brain reengages to overcome today’s very different demands. You’ll be stunned by how much you’re able to accomplish in short order after this exercise.
Enjoy returning to modern times, banishing that Saber Tooth Tiger and celebrating the gift of more productive time in your schedule.
