One of my personal traits that I have to keep in check, sometimes more than others is my ability to "panic". I tend to react then pull myself together and proceed on finding a solution.
I know I'm not alone. There are major advertising campaigns focusing on this "trait". Nike's "Just do it" and Staples " That was easy" are front runners in addressing this trait - tactfully at that (IMHO).
I use three P words to help avoid the forbidden Panic!
- Predict - while not every panic situations is predictable, I strongly feel many are. Experiences helps in this. Those silent nagging questions or the concerns that start churning up the stomach are great tell-tale signs. Knowing to recognize these symptoms is step 1.
- Prevent - Don't ignore the questions or concerns that popped up in your mind. Sometimes even the minor concern can seem "silly" but be overwhelming. This is where don't assume comes into play. We probably all know what that means, but since I don't assume (make an A** out of U and Me). Sometimes a quick "that was easy" phone call can eliminate everything.
- Prepare - this sort of goes along with Prevent, but it is different enough to be entitled to be on it's own. I also think that this is where a lot of panic originates from - the lack of preparation! This is one industry, especially when things get busy, where preparation sometimes takes the back seat.
By paying attention to the these three P's, we not only limit the panic situations but another P work emerges. Professionalism!
(I have to admit this is my first post like this and it is a bit scary to hit that "post blog entry" button. It's easy, It's easy, It's easy as I say my affirmations for today).
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