A Big Idea—A New Way of LEADING

Let’s start with some basics: When we are anxious, our body immediately signals distress in subtle and not-so-subtle ways. The polygraph that measures key biometrics operates on the principle that most people are not consciously aware of, let alone able to mask, those subtle bodily changes when they are anxious about being caught in a lie. Similarly, specialists in reading body language have cataloged a list of key indicators that are below conscious awareness, yet to the trained eye, signal a range of emotions and moods. The good news is that if we pay attention, we can learn to spot many bodily signs of heightened anxiety in ourselves. And once we realize that our body is carrying that anxiety, we can work on calming ourselves by deliberately relaxing our body.

What are some of the frequent bodily indicators of anxiety? For some people, raised shoulders and a slight curving in of the body to protect vital organs or an effort to shrink in size as if to avoid being a target can be telltale signs of anxiety. For many, shallow breathing and tension in the jaw, back, chest, neck, or stomach are common signals of inner tension. These are all common ways we display anxiety. If we pay attention to what our body is telling us, we can lower anxiety by taking countermeasures that help to calm our anxious minds and feelings.

There are many simple physical moves that can relax our bodies and help us manage and roll back our anxiety. One practice we suggest because it can be done virtually any time or anywhere is what we call six-second centering. We have taught six-second centering to hundreds of leaders, and most of them find it an invaluable way to calm their nervous system so that they can think more clearly and creatively about the challenges and threats causing them to feel anxious in the first place.

Many other physical relaxation practices are worth exploring and can be done before, during, or after heightened anxiety. Preventative steps to help us remain calm so that our chronic anxiety never reaches too high a level may be even more helpful.

Here is a sampling of the many preventive practices that leaders we have worked with have used to maintain a less anxious presence:

• Develop a repertoire of activities that help you to center yourself (e.g., exercise, yoga, meditation/mindfulness, etc.)
• Take care of the basics that are foundational to emotional bandwidth, like getting enough exercise and sleep and eating properly
• Focus on/get in touch with your strengths and who you are at your best
• Reconnect with the noble purpose of your life to gain perspective. Keep a reflective journal
• Find support systems that help you to relax and become more thoughtful (e.g., coaching, therapy, peer groups, mentors)
• Talk with a trusted colleague about what is raising your level of anxiety

A leader with a less anxious presence embodies and communicates an inner calm that helps others lower their anxiety. Doing so paves the way for clear thinking to prevail.