How to Cope Under Pressure

Imagine this scenario. After some years of having success with your martial arts school, the recession hits. You find your numbers, sales, enrollments, going lower and lower. You’re forced to cutback, you don’t get the same money as before, and you feel pressure coming from all directions. It’s really tiring and stress inducing. All of your energy has been sapped, you don’t find any reason to smile or laugh, and all you want to do is just lie on bed and eat a tub of ice cream.

I’ve just mentioned a disaster scenario where the natural response is to give up. But when we are put under immense pressure, we must fight the urge to just lie down and do nothing. This is the perfect time to do everything that we can to lift this weight off our shoulders. It’s go time people, this is the moment when you don’t have anything to lose and everything to gain. This is how to cope under pressure.

Socialize

If you’re facing trials and disappointments, either two things happen, flight or fight. Usually, we shun everyone because we don’t want to be seen in a sorry state. But being alone won’t do you any good. When I have a problem, I talk to my friends about it and it really helps. First, I get to vent out which feels good because it somehow lessens the gravity of my situation. Second, friends are great cheerleaders; they always know what to say to cheer you up. When my chips are down, I just need someone to say “Everything’s gonna be alright, it’s not the end of the world.”

Aside from talking to friends, socializing is a way to network, a chance to talk to fellow businesspeople that may have the key to your problem. If you have a network of people that can relate with business, go mingle. They have valuable experiences that can possibly help with your situation.

Avoid Negativity

When everything is falling apart, don’t read or watch too much negative news. With the government shutdown, it may drain your last sliver of positivity. Instead of watching the news before bed, read books that are uplifting. The last thing you read will be the focus of your mind. It will remain in your dreams and will be the first thing you think of when you wake up.

Exercise

When you’re sad or depressed, exercise can greatly improve your mood. Maybe it’s the circulation that gives more blood and oxygen to the brain or the surge of chemicals that makes us think better. Do your favorite exercise or sport. Walk, jog, lift weights, play tennis, or spar with a partner. After the sweat, you’ll feel much better.

Amass Information

Read books and articles on the internet about business. Keep up with industry trends, learn through seminars, and attend workshops. Focus on the solution and not the problem. The answer to your problems may be floating around and all you have to do is find it.

Cheer Yourself Up

And lastly, be your own cheerleader. If friends and family can’t boost your spirits, then you can do the cheering yourself. If this situation happens to your friend, what would you say?