Bump, Bump, Bump… Finding a moment to think

This is the opening line of Winnie the Pooh written in 1926 by A.A.Milne

The speed at which work and emergencies seem to occur often means we don’t get the chance to pause and think if what we are doing is the best approach we can take. Finding time – day to day and during an emergency can be hard. Our brains under stress will automatically look for short cuts that mean we are not being as effective as we want to be. This includes:

• Using previous memories and doing this same thing again – even if the situation is different
• Continuing to follow a plan even if its not working because it feels too hard to change
• Focusing on small issues and tasks, rather than tackling the bigger strategic picture and plan

Take a breath (or 5)

One strategy used by some very smart and experienced people (especially in the middle of very stressful situations) is taking a pause and doing some deep breathing. This physically changes the chemicals in our body and brain, helping us to slow down, think clearly and make better decisions.

(Remembering to do this is currently a personal goal for Kath!)

Make time to plan strategically

Sometimes, taking a day to allow yourself and others to focus on the bigger strategic picture is essential. Finding time to think about other ways (that are more effective or efficient, kinder, less stressful) is hard, but the outcome can be worth it. And don’t forget to schedule a future point in time to stop bumping and check in again – monitoring progress to goals and effectiveness of strategies is essential for day to day, in learning/training and during emergencies!

The Brio Team recently spent a day completing strategic planning, looking back and to the future. We spent the last part of our time together booking in calendar events to ensure we monitor and evaluate our progress together, holding each person accountable.