Each of us has our own unique way of dealing with stress. Some exercise, some argue and some turn to substances that help them feel more relaxed…or at least forget their troubles momentarily.

Substance abuse is a serious topic, and it’s one we should be serious about fixing.

* * * * *
We all remember that person that had one too many during a corporate function or at a networking event. One thing for sure is that you don’t need to read a study to confirm that alcoholism and drug dependency are on the rise and becoming more visible. Although abuse is a common occurrence when the economy is down, it is not the answer to life’s problems. I’ve noticed more people drinking during the day and night, many to drown their sorrows from the pressure of declining and/or failed business.

From a professional standpoint, I know alcohol abuse deteriorates the workplace, families and personal productivity. Most professionals seem to believe a weekend binge has no effect on their personal or professional performance. Most happy hour participants seem to believe that drinking until you drop is acceptable in today’s society and has no bearing on personal and professional life. My goal is not to judge anyone, but to bring awareness to a problem that which can be solved-if people want to. I’m sure of one thing: all of the dots are connected.

I will admit that this economy caught me off guard, and I’ve been scrambling to find alternative sources for new business growth. I also realized that my personal consumption of alcohol was increasing both at home and in social situations. What was more dramatic was the fact that a number of friends also seemed to be indulging at an increased rate right along with me, some taking it to the point of no return, or what I deemed “the blackout,” a state of drunkenness where you simply pass out. Someone asked me the other day, “Are you stressed out with this down economy? You seem to be able to mask it well if you are.” My honest answer was yes, though there is nothing I can do about the economy; there is, however, a lot I can do about my own behavior. If I didn’t make some changes there, things would get worse. Most dependencies are progressive, and they can rapidly spin out of control.

The question, then, is how do you know if you have reached a point where you are out of control? How do you know whether or not you are functionally dependent? A chemical dependency exists when you drink or use a chemical substance to alter a state of mind and body to a point that you become both physically and psychologically dependent upon it. It is not based on the number of drinks or substances, it is based on honesty. The best way to understand whether or not problems exist is to focus in on the phrase “an altered state of being”. Stress, anxiety, insecurities, shame and guilt are sometimes factors in why people seek an altered state of being. Liquid courage is one of the best ways to describe the effects of alcohol. The reason we need courage is to overcome fear, my acronyms for which are: F**k Everything And Run, Face Everything And Recover and False Events Appearing Real. Alcohol and other substances can give you a false sense of courage by hiding any consequences for one’s actions.

What’s the Solution Besides Alcohol?

From a personal standpoint, I’ve decided to truly focus on what I can control. Yes, I will be real with you and admit I’m stressed and find fear creeping into my mental environment, but I choose not to participate in a fear-based mentality. I must be a bit strange because I have an appreciation for stress and pressure. It gives me the opportunity to grow and get stronger. I’ve learned that I can’t change yesterday, but I can handle what’s going on in the moment.

What can I do now? I highly recommend Eckhart Tolle’s book the Power of Now. My Now is my state of being in the present, which is accepting where I am and understanding I’m on a journey. My Now is being as healthy as possible by working out and eating right every moment I am able. My Now is helping those around me to feel good about themselves at every opportunity I get. My Now is to connect spiritually with my higher power at every moment. My Now is to realize that everything is as it needs to be in that moment. My Now is not to judge, but bring conscious awareness to a progressive problem that could be affecting someone you know.

We all have challenges and obstacles to overcome. That’s the journey of life. It builds strength, awareness, character, confidence and experience. In turn, that’s how we help and support one another. You deserve to live every aspect of your life in a whole and healthy and optimal way. The only thing you have to do is be honest with yourself. Look at your behavior. Do you need a change?

Please forward this message with love to anyone you believe can benefit from this knowledge.

* * *Next Issue* * *

In our next issue, I will bring to you the fundamentals of over-the-top service excellence, “Lessons from Alma – A Housekeeper for the Stars.”

Habits form the impressions that direct our actions. Dr. Debbie Campbell provides valuable information to create the right habits for optimal performance.

Enjoy!

Seven Habits for Peak Performance

You can achieve Peak Performance.

 No matter what your job, profession, hobby, or interest, you can achieve peak performance.  Peak performance suggests that one is operating at an optimal capacity. There are seven habits to understand and practice in order to obtain peak performance.

 1st Habit.   Adequate Sleep/Rest
A prerequisite to all other habits involved in peak performance is a good night’s sleep. The importance of sufficient, high quality sleep is well documented.  Studies suggest that most people need seven to eight hours of sleep a night.  Many people get far less sleep and this can result in daytime drowsiness, decreased concentration, more accidents, and more illnesses.  The body performs very important tasks while we are asleep including regulating gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, and immune functions, and furthering cognitive processing (yes, those dreams are important and useful).

 2nd Habit.   Focused Concentration
Focused Concentration is essential for peak performance.  Athletes refer to this state as being “in the zone”. A focus on the process rather than the outcome is also part of peak performance. Although it is best to have a vision and mission, it is then important to stay in the present and to be able to manage distractions. Distractions can be internal (such as disturbing or negative thoughts), or external factors such as noise, climate, etc.
3rd Habit.  Energy Activation/Control

For peak performance, energy should be activated when necessary. This implies the ability to change your level of energy and to utilize the right amount of energy for the task at hand. There are times (such as managing conflict) when a quieter, calmer energy is most important. At other times, a leader might exhibit high energy as in presenting his vision to his/her direct reports. Energy needs to be successfully utilized and managed.

 If someone is deficient in energy, actions should be taken to replenish this energy and rejuvenate body and mind. This is the topic of another article. It is also helpful to identify and utilize your usual hours of optimal functioning. Some people find they are sharper in the morning, others find themselves “coming into stride” in the afternoon (or evening) hours.  Peak performers schedule more difficult and demanding tasks for peak hours.
 
4th Habit.   Healthy Diet
It is well documented that many (usually six) small nutritious meals a day result in more steady blood sugar levels.  Peak performers then will have more energy, and better performance under this regimen.  Protein and complex carbohydrates, as well as minimal amounts of (good) fat, keep our bodies operating at peak performance. Remember also to drink plenty of water each day to stay hydrated. Water helps peak performers fight fatigue, lubricates muscles and joints, and even decreases wrinkles!

5th Habit.  Exercise
Exercise is a powerful contributor to peak performance.  Exercise helps us release (cortisol) stress hormones, boosts our metabolism, and gets oxygen flowing to the brain. It can be a great way to wake up and prepare for the day, or exercise can be done later in the day and utilized to “release” the stresses of the day. Exercise also stimulates the release of endorphins, “natural antidepressants” which elevate mood.
 
6th Habit.  Positive Self Talk
Positive Self Talk is another factor in Peak Performance. We need to believe we can accomplish our goals, and possess self confidence. It is helpful to be cognizant of our strengths and to remember our successes. It is important to see mistakes as a means of learning and therefore not a terrible experience.  Peak Performers can talk to themselves in ways that are nurturing, empowering, and motivating.

 7th Habit.  Imagery (Visioning)
Peak performers can imagine and envision their goals. They practice visioning, a mental rehearsal of future achievement. Peak performers have a sense of purpose and are usually grounded in a mission statement. They may utilize imagery, meditation, visualization, and journaling to channel creative processes. They may work with others (brainstorming) or “go within” to design their plan. They have the strategic ability to plan necessary steps and then implement these steps into effective action.

 Practice these habits and aim high! You too can achieve peak performance.

 
© Debbie Campbell, Ph.D., 2006
Debbie Campbell, Ph.D. is an Executive Coach, Life Coach, and Psychologist. For more information or a Free coaching consultation, contact Debbie@lifecoachingbydrdebbie.com. 

Next Issue
In my next issue, I’ll be back to writing about my own experiences and giving my own suggestions for living a life ignited with passion and purpose. See you next time!