Ages ago, Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution brought to light ‘survival of the fittest’ that actually refers to organisms who can adapt to their changing environments and survive. In a world full of uncertainties, we have no idea when the next adversity will make an appearance. However, if we were able to, what would be the best way to be prepared?
The first is to not be fearful and the second is to keep calm. When we are fearful, we spend all our energy in this emotion. By not embracing fear, we save this energy to use in rational thinking. On the other hand, keeping calm allows us to be productive and make the right decisions, the kind we would make in a normal situation. It is definitely easier said than done but it’s not impossible.
It would help if you defined the form of adversity by asking yourself a few questions – is the adversity small or big? Is it temporary or permanent? Can you deal with it by yourself or do you need help? Once you have the answers to your questions you can then think rationally about the next steps that you must take to overcome it. Make a plan and channel the ‘fear’ energy into implementing it. The biggest example of this was the COVID-19 pandemic. Initially there were lockdowns, infections and no vaccinations so everyone was fearful of what was to come next. In due course of time, we became aware of steps we could take to avoid the virus; wear masks, maintain a social distance, wash our hands often, work from home and go to the hospital to get tested and treated if we developed symptoms. This plan helped us overcome some of the fear till we went into the next phase when vaccinations were made available.
It was very sad that we lost so may precious lives due to the pandemic and each country faced their unique set of challenges. Many fell short of medical resources, oxygen cylinders, vaccinations and medical staff. When that situation finally got a little better, the economic challenges surfaced. A majority of businesses took a hit but then they adapted and evolved with new strategies and offerings. They could do this because the business owners and corporate management teams thought and researched calmly about what they could do best in this new reality.
In order to keep calm, think about the big picture. Think about your purpose in life, your loved ones, your interests, and how much space the current adversity occupies in your big picture. Then think of what calms you down. Is it a peaceful quiet place away from electronic media, just talking to someone in your family or a session of guided meditation? I like to talk to my family and read an inspirational book. Think about what would work for you and take a decision on how you will handle the adversity you are facing. Then fine-tune your strategy to emerge stronger from it.
Always get the better of adversity by trying your best to be fearless and keeping calm. You can use such positive emotions to adapt to undesirable situations, be more productive and stay healthy.
