Staying cool as a cucumber while everything around you seems to be falling apart truly is an art.
People who know how to do it aren’t just lucky, either — they have a unique set of traits and habits that help them get through tough times with grace. Here are some things the unflappable among us do to stay calm.
1. They take a deep breath before reacting.
When faced with a stressful situation, their first instinct isn’t to panic or lash out. Instead, they pause, take a deep breath, and allow themselves a moment to gather their thoughts. This simple act helps them to regulate their emotions and respond thoughtfully, rather than reacting impulsively.
2. They focus on what they can control.
They understand that there are many things in life that are beyond their control. Instead of wasting energy on things they can’t change, they focus on what they can influence – their own actions, thoughts, and attitudes. This empowers them to take charge of the situation and find solutions, even in the midst of chaos.
3. They break down problems into smaller, manageable steps.
Overwhelming situations can feel insurmountable, but these individuals know how to break them down into smaller, more manageable tasks. This makes the challenge seem less daunting and provides a clear roadmap for action. They tackle one step at a time, steadily making progress even when the situation feels chaotic.
4. They maintain a sense of humour.
Even in the face of adversity, they can find the humour in the situation. Laughter is a powerful stress reliever, and they use it to their advantage. Their ability to find the lighter side of things helps them maintain perspective and avoid getting bogged down by negativity.
5. They ask for help and/or support when they need it.
They understand that they don’t have to face challenges alone. They’re not afraid to reach out to friends, family, or colleagues for help or advice. They know that sharing their burdens can lighten the load and provide valuable perspective. Their willingness to ask for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
6. They practise self-care and prioritise their well-being.
They understand that they can’t be their best selves if they’re not taking care of themselves. They make time for activities that nourish their mind, body, and soul, whether it’s exercise, meditation, or simply spending time in nature. This self-care routine helps them stay grounded and resilient, even when life gets chaotic.
7. They learn from their mistakes and move on.
They understand that mistakes are inevitable, and they don’t dwell on them. Instead, they view them as opportunities for growth and learning. They take responsibility for their actions, make amends when necessary, and move forward with a renewed sense of purpose. Their ability to let go of the past allows them to stay focused on the present and the future.
8. They don’t talk to themselves like rubbish.
They understand the power of their thoughts and choose to cultivate a positive mindset. They replace self-criticism with self-compassion and affirmations. This helps them maintain a sense of self-worth and confidence, even in challenging situations. They understand that their inner dialogue shapes their reality.
9. They try to keep a balanced perspective.
They understand that setbacks and challenges are a normal part of life. They don’t catastrophise or let their imaginations run wild with worst-case scenarios. Instead, they maintain a realistic perspective, focusing on the facts and avoiding exaggerations. This helps them stay grounded and make rational decisions even when things feel chaotic.
10. They stay organised and know how to prioritise their to-do list.
They know that a cluttered mind can lead to a cluttered life. They keep their surroundings tidy and organised, and they create systems to manage their tasks and responsibilities. This helps them stay focused and avoid feeling overwhelmed, even when juggling multiple priorities.
11. They delegate tasks and ask for help when necessary.
They understand that they can’t do everything themselves. They’re not afraid to delegate tasks or ask for help when needed. This frees up their time and energy to focus on the most important things, and it allows them to leverage other people’s strengths. Their willingness to collaborate and share responsibility demonstrates leadership and humility.
12. They set realistic expectations and avoid overcommitting themselves.
They understand the importance of balance and avoid taking on more than they can handle. They set realistic goals and expectations, and they’re not afraid to say no to requests that would stretch them too thin. This helps them avoid burnout and maintain a sense of control over their lives.
13. They practise patience and perseverance.
They understand that not everything can be solved overnight. They’re willing to be patient and persistent, even when faced with setbacks or delays. They don’t give up easily, and they keep working towards their goals, even when progress is slow. Their unwavering determination is often the key to their success.
14. They celebrate small victories and acknowledge their progress.
They don’t wait for major milestones to feel a sense of accomplishment. They celebrate small victories along the way, recognising their progress and effort. This helps them stay motivated and maintain a positive outlook, even when facing challenges. They understand that every step forward, no matter how small, is worth celebrating.
15. They work on inner peace and acceptance.
They understand that true peace comes from within. They cultivate a sense of inner peace and acceptance through practises like meditation, mindfulness, or simply spending quiet time alone. This inner peace allows them to weather life’s storms with grace and equanimity. They’re not immune to stress or challenges, but they have the tools to navigate them with composure and resilience.
