(Principles are basic truths that, when applied, cause success to come to you easier and quicker.)


Talking with a seatmate during a recent airplane trip we discussed his history which included years as a paramedic. A phrase just slipped out of him about how he stayed calm and focused in intense situations.

Each event he would remind himself, “This is not my emergency.” That frame of reference supported him to remain professional and caring in the middle of emotion-filled disasters.

Sometimes he physically grounded/anchored the phrase by touching the door-frame as he entered a home or office or as he arrived at the mangled body of a vehicle.

Be present? Of course. Do what you’re there to do? Yes. Take on the emotional energy of the participants? Not useful.


Coaching Point: Can you recall an emotion-based situation where reciting “This is not MY emergency” would have helped you stay focused and have performed with a clearer head and heart?


Copyright 2024 Steve Straus. All rights reserved.