In our busy world, staying calm under pressure is often mixed with feeling in control. Yet, calmness and control, while related, are fundamentally different. And, understanding the distinction between them can have important implications for our mental fitness and wellbeing.
Calmness is an internal state of tranquillity, allowing us to navigate challenges through wisdom and without being overwhelmed by stress or anxiety. Control, on the other hand, implies an inner drive to exert strength, power and influence over situations or other people. To decide on which serves you well, it can be helpful to look at which carries the highest cost.
The Stress of Constant Control
When we constantly try to feel in control over every situation, this can lead to higher levels of stress and anxiety. This is particularly true in the workplace, where unpredictable factors often come into play. When we equate calmness with control, we set ourselves up for frustration and disappointment when things inevitably don’t go as we expected them to.
Numerous studies have shown that excessive control can lead to:
📈 Increased stress and anxiety
😔 Decreased job satisfaction
👥 Strained relationships with colleagues
It's essential to recognize that some level of unpredictability is inherent in life. Instead of focusing on controlling every detail, we can benefit from cultivating an inner sense of calm that allows us to adapt to changes gracefully.
Embracing Calmness 🌿
Developing a sense of calm involves mindfulness and emotional regulation. It’s about finding ways to remain centred, even when circumstances are beyond our control. This approach has been linked to:
📉 Lower stress levels
😊 Higher job satisfaction
🤝 Improved relationships with colleagues
Various reports reveal alarming statistics about the adverse effects of seeking constant control. One study shows that individuals who attempt to control every aspect of their work environment experience higher levels of burnout and emotional exhaustion. Another indicates that employees who focus on maintaining calmness rather than control feel more engaged and satisfied with their work.
Creating a Calm and Supportive Environment
While many organizations are implementing changes to support their employees' well-being, the journey towards fostering a calm workplace is ongoing. Employers can play a pivotal role by promoting a culture that values calmness and adaptability over rigid control.
As we move towards this goal, it’s essential to:
🧘 Encourage mindfulness and stress-reduction practices
🌟 Foster a supportive and open work environment
🏆 Recognize and celebrate adaptability and resilience
Creating such an environment benefits not just individuals but the entire organization. When employees feel calm and supported, they are more likely to be innovative, collaborative, and productive.
The Role of Leadership
Leaders have a unique responsibility to model calmness and flexibility. It's a privilege to offer my clients a safe and supportive space where they can explore these concepts. By prioritizing calmness over control, leaders can inspire their teams to embrace change and uncertainty with confidence and grace.
👉 If you're ready to explore how cultivating calmness can transform your leadership style and improve your team's dynamics, let's connect. As an executive, leadership and life coach, I am here to help you navigate these challenges and unlock your full potential. Reach out to me for a complimentary consultation, and let's embark on this journey together.
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