Slowing Down to Speed Up
In a fast-paced, high-pressure environment, slowing down may seem counterintuitive. However, research suggests that slowing down is actually the healthiest and most productive way to manage stress and move forward effectively. High net worth executives often find themselves trying to cut costs, increase productivity, and tackle never-ending to-do lists. This constant state of busyness can lead to burnout and prevent them from performing at their best.
To combat this, wealthy executives should prioritize self-care practices that promote overall well-being. This includes replacing quick fixes like caffeine and carbohydrate-rich foods with nutritious meals, prioritizing restorative sleep rituals, and incorporating regular exercise into their routines. By slowing down and taking care of their physical and mental health, leaders can recharge and perform at their best.
Shifting from Guilt to Healthy Self-Care
A common obstacle for wealthy executives in managing stress is the guilt associated with taking time for themselves. It is important for executives to recognize that self-care is not a luxury, but a necessity, especially in high-stress environments. Research suggests that sleep and exercise can lower levels of cortisol, one of the stress hormones, and promote overall well-being. By prioritizing self-care practices, wealthy executives can strengthen their ability to successfully navigate stressful times.
It is important to recognize personal stress warning signs and early symptoms in order to intervene before stress levels escalate. Everyone experiences stress differently, and recognizing these unique stressors and warning signs can help executives implement timely interventions. This could include taking breaks, going for walks, practicing stress management techniques such as deep breathing or Emotional Freedom Technique, or seeking support from loved ones.
Choosing Effective Stress Responses
Once wealthy executives are aware of their stressors and warning signs, it is critical to decide how to respond effectively. Developing insights and skills to proactively respond to stressors can go a long way toward managing stress. Leaders should take time to pause and assess what may be contributing to their stress symptoms. This may include reviewing workloads, delegating tasks, reprioritizing, or incorporating wellness breaks into their day.
Moreover, identifying factors within and outside of their control is critical to managing stress. Leaders can choose to proactively respond to stress by engaging in stress management techniques that promote relaxation and calm. This could include engaging in activities such as meditation, listening to music, taking a walk, or connecting with loved ones. By consciously choosing stress responses and engaging in relaxation techniques, wealthy executives can effectively manage stress and maintain their well-being.
Making Stress Your Friend
While chronic stress can be detrimental to health and well-being, stress in small bursts can actually be beneficial. According to Stanford University lecturer and psychologist Kelly McGonigal, short-term stress responses can help individuals meet tight deadlines and make difficult decisions. The key is to ensure that stress levels do not remain elevated and become chronic.
By reframing their perspective on stress and viewing it as a natural response that can energize and drive them, wealthy executives can reap the benefits of stress while avoiding its detrimental effects. McGonigal suggests using stress mastery techniques to effectively manage ongoing stressors. These techniques can help executives build resilience, increase levels of oxytocin (a neurotransmitter associated with social bonding and regeneration), and perform their jobs more effectively.
