Three Steps to Mastering Stress for High Performance
A first step in maintaining high performance is to identify which stress-producing problems need lasting solutions. For this purpose, we developed the Stress Impact® Survey, which shows the relative impact of eight universal source problems that generate stress in us.
Once the source problems have been identified, specific work has to be done in solving the source, problem. Seeking solutions leads to a rational plan that eliminates distracting emotions and illogical thinking. Then well-conceived solutions can be implemented.
Raising tolerance to the source problem is another important step. Since not all problems can be immediately solved — or solved at all —learning to live with them contributes to high performance. This buffers us against stress and allows us to think more clearly while seeking - solutions.
Stamina is the third all-important step in trying to solve problems or tolerate them. Stamina can be defined as our ability to sustain activity over extended time periods without experiencing fatigue, Building stamina, therefore, contributes directly to high performance and provides us with physical energy and mental clarity, as well as problem-solving endurance.
Put first things first
While we are in the process of correcting the source of stress, we may want to alleviate some of our stress responses and body reactions through meditation, relaxation, or biofeedback techniques. Or we may seek medical help if some physical problems have erupted from long-standing, unresolved source problems. The medical approach to stressful situations is after-the-fact when our body finally gives way. Relaxation is a during-the-fact remedy to subdue the body’s severe stress reactions.
We have developed the High-Performance Management™ Program as a before-the-fact approach that goes to the source of the problem to reduce or eliminate the cause of stress, uproot it and replace it with high performance.
How High Performance Management Program Is Different?
The High-Performance Management program fills a major gap between traditional interventions in response to stress. Most programs center around physical fitness, diet, exercise, and general health habits. Employee assistance programs send “troubled” employees to see a local counselor or psychologist. Some companies bring the professionals on site.
High-Performance Management is not for the “troubled” employee. Its purpose is to prevent the “troubled” state. High-Performance Management catches stress and harnesses it for productive performance with all employees at all levels of the organization.
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