Staying calm under pressure can feel like an impossible feat. But believe it or not, it’s a skill that can be learned and perfected.
This is where the philosophy of Stoicism comes in handy. It’s an ancient Greek philosophy that champions the idea of finding peace amidst chaos.
People who master this admirable trait often practice certain Stoic habits. And the good news is, they’re habits anyone can adopt.
In this article, we’ll explore 8 Stoic habits that help people stay cool, calm, and collected under pressure. So read on if you’re ready to take your calmness game to the next level.
1) Embrace the impermanence
Stoicism teaches us that nothing in life is permanent, and this understanding can be a major key to staying calm under pressure.
People who are calm under pressure have a deep-rooted understanding that every situation – good or bad – is transient. It’s this acceptance of impermanence that helps them maintain their composure, even when things get tough.
Consider this. If you constantly remind yourself that your current stressful situation won’t last forever, it becomes much easier to navigate through it without losing your cool.
This may sound simple, but it’s a profound shift in perspective that can have a massive impact on your ability to stay calm under pressure. So next time you’re in a tough spot, remind yourself – this too shall pass.
2) Practice objective judgement
A key tenet of Stoicism is learning to separate facts from feelings. This doesn’t mean neglecting your emotions, but rather viewing situations objectively to make rational decisions.
I remember a time when I was working on a major project with a tight deadline.
The stress was mounting, and I could feel my anxiety levels rising.
But instead of letting these feelings cloud my judgement, I took a step back.
I asked myself, “What are the facts here?”
The facts were that I had a task to complete within a certain timeframe. My emotions were extra – they weren’t helping me get the job done.
By focusing on the task at hand and not my swirling emotions, I was able to approach the situation rationally and efficiently. This Stoic habit of practicing objective judgement always helps me keep calm under pressure.
3) Contemplate the worst-case scenario
In Stoicism, there’s a practice known as negative visualization. It’s the process of imagining the worst possible outcome of a situation.
While it might seem counterintuitive, it’s actually a powerful tool for maintaining calmness under pressure.
Here’s why.
By considering the worst, you’re preparing yourself for any possible outcome. This exercise can drastically reduce fear and anxiety, as you’re essentially taking away the power of the unknown.
Historically, many great leaders have used this technique to their advantage. For instance, Seneca, a famous Stoic philosopher, would often contemplate poverty to appreciate his wealth more and to be prepared if he ever lost it.
This habit helps to cultivate resilience and emotional fortitude, making it easier to stay calm under pressure.
4) Focus on what you can control
A cornerstone of Stoic philosophy is understanding the difference between what we can control and what we can’t. People who stay calm under pressure have mastered this understanding.
The reality is, there will always be factors outside of our control – outcomes, other people’s actions, or external events. But what we can control is our response to these things.
By focusing on what’s within our control, like our actions and attitudes, we reduce feelings of stress and helplessness. This principle encourages us to let go of futile worries about uncontrollable factors and channel our energy towards productive actions.
In every challenging situation, remember to focus on your sphere of control. It’s a surefire way to maintain calmness under pressure.
5) Choose compassion over judgment
Stoics place a great deal of emphasis on empathy and understanding. They believe in the power of compassion to diffuse tension and foster calmness.
When we’re under pressure, it’s easy to become impatient or critical of others. But reacting in this way only adds to our stress levels.
Choosing compassion over judgment, on the other hand, can have a transformative effect. When we approach situations with understanding and kindness, we create a positive environment that promotes calmness.
The truth is, we’re all human and we all make mistakes.
Remembering this and treating others (and ourselves) with compassion can make challenging situations much easier to navigate, fostering an inner calm that can withstand any storm.
6) Develop the habit of reflection
Stoics believe that self-reflection is a vital tool for personal growth and maintaining calm. It’s about taking the time to understand your reactions, emotions, and thoughts.
There was a period in my life when I felt constantly overwhelmed.
My stress levels were through the roof and nothing seemed to help.
Then, I turned to the practice of self-reflection.
Every evening, I would sit in silence for a few minutes, reflecting on my day. I would analyze my reactions to different situations, my feelings, and the thoughts that occupied my mind.
This practice helped me understand myself better. I began to notice patterns in my behavior that contributed to my stress. More importantly, I learned how to manage these patterns effectively.
The habit of self-reflection allowed me to remain calm under pressure because it gave me a deeper understanding of myself and how I respond to stress. It’s a practice I swear by and one that has truly transformed my life.
7) Embrace discomfort
Stoics see discomfort as a necessary part of personal growth. They believe that stepping out of your comfort zone is the path to resilience.
People who stay calm under pressure often practice this stoic habit. They intentionally put themselves in challenging situations, not to suffer, but to grow stronger.
Embracing discomfort helps to develop mental and emotional toughness. It prepares you for life’s unexpected challenges, making it easier to stay calm when under pressure.
So, the next time you’re faced with a situation that pushes your boundaries, remember to see it as an opportunity for growth rather than a source of discomfort.
8) Practice mindfulness
If there’s one thing that Stoics want us to remember, it’s the importance of living in the present moment.
This principle, known as mindfulness, is a powerful tool for staying calm under pressure.
Mindfulness is about focusing on the here and now, rather than worrying about the past or the future. It’s about accepting the present moment exactly as it is, without judgment or resistance.
Practicing mindfulness can significantly reduce stress and anxiety, helping us to respond to pressure with calmness and clarity.
So, remember to pause, breathe, and fully engage with the present moment – it just might be your secret weapon for staying calm under pressure.
Final thought: It’s a journey
The essence of Stoicism is not something that can be acquired overnight. It’s a continuous journey of self-improvement and personal growth.
These eight Stoic habits are not just techniques to stay calm under pressure. They are life principles that can guide us towards a more serene and fulfilling existence.
Each one of these practices holds the potential to transform not just how we handle pressure, but how we navigate life itself.
So next time you find yourself under pressure, consider it an opportunity – an opportunity to practice these Stoic habits and come out stronger on the other side.
What would Marcus Aurelius say?
Unsure what to do next in your career? Struggling to move on from a failed relationship? Searching for more meaning in life?
Marcus Aurelius can tell you how to face your challenges in a more Stoic way.
Simply ask your question, and Marcus Aurelius will answer.
