Flood the zone. Shock. Awe. Overwhelm. Information overload.
These are all terms I’ve heard used recently to describe the general climate of the world – particularly the United States – over the last month. The mood that’s been created can be quite dizzying, if you allow yourself to get caught in the spin. Because that’s exactly what it is, and what it’s meant to be: overwhelming, disorienting spin.
It’s time to take a lesson from professional dancers. When asked how they maintain their balance you will hear the same advice:
- Find your center of gravity
- Focus on your “spot” or fixed point
- Maintain that focus for as long as possible
Why do dancers use spotting? Because it reduces dizziness. How? By giving their eyes something fixed to focus on, they trick their brain by giving it a stable signal rather than the whiplash of the spin.
How can you apply this to your (non-dancing) life during times of uncertainty, overwhelm and exhaustion?
Ask yourself, “What is my fixed point?” For some people it might be a wellness routine, like meditation or running. For others it might be spirituality, faith or traditions. Still, for others, it could be a hobby or creative outlet. It could be a blend of these and more. But the bottom line is this: What is your “spot”?
I know for me it’s a reminder of my own personal core values, the people and experiences in this life I’m grateful for, and the joy I find in activities like running, writing, and painting.
What’s also helpful is to notice what is NOT included in that list. Specifically, scrolling through social media, news feeds, or binge-watching streaming channels. While I appreciate being informed, and love a good series or two, time limits and content curation – and moderation – are key.
This activity reminds me to get up and move. Meditate. Reach out to my social circle for an in person or virtual coffee chat. Pull out my paint brushes or writing journals and get creative for a few hours. Engage my mind, body and spirit.
Activating my whole self via my own “spot” helps slow down my desire to over-index on the hyper-rational, analytical, news absorbing side of my brain. It forces me to lift my head up, look around, and see the bigger picture.
What is your fixed point? If you want a quick jump start, try selecting five to focus on from the list below (note, this is not an exhaustive list, but some of the most common I work with in my own coaching practice).
Core Values List
Authenticity
Achievement
Adventure
Authority
Autonomy
Balance
Beauty
Boldness
Compassion
Challenge
Citizenship
Community
Competency
Contribution
Creativity
Curiosity
Determination
Environment
Fairness
Faith
Fame
Friendships
Fun
Growth
Happiness
Honesty
Humor
Influence
Inner Harmony
Justice
Kindness
Knowledge
Leadership
Learning
Love
Loyalty
Meaningful Work
Openness
Optimism
Peace
Pleasure
Poise
Popularity
Recognition
Religion
Reputation
Respect
Responsibility
Security
Self-Respect
Service
Spirituality
Stability
Success
Status
Trustworthiness
Wealth
Wisdom
