More and more often, I am being asked by trainees “How can I change my stress levels and my mood when I am having a bad day?”
As something I hear frequently, I have a keen interest in learning more about the topic. Especially as our mood can really affect our work and overall health in many ways. From our productivity, motivation and stress levels, it can greatly influence our overall attitude to others. As a result, it can impact our interactions with others.
Naturally I will always answer the question and give some tips. Yet, mindful that other trainees often have good ideas, I decided to put the question to a group on a recent workshop.
I was so absolutely delighted I asked, as it proved to be one of those days when we found a “Golden nugget”.
One of the attendees told us about a very clever yet simple technique she learnt some time ago that really works. She explained she had been doing some positive mindset training, where she was learning to focus her mind as she got ready to walk on hot coals. As part of the preparation, the instructor gave them some practical tips to help them get into the right frame of mind.
She told us about the short technique is called the “Peter Pan Stance”.
It’s not to be confused with the “Peter Pan Syndrome” often used by psychologists to describe an adult who is socially immature. It’s purely a quick exercise that can be used in any situation to instantly lighten your frame of mind.
With just 6 easy steps, she kindly demonstrated the stance and encouraged the rest of us to join in, reciting the moves as follows:
- Stand up straight with your feet slightly apart
- Put out your arms in front of you
- Scrunch up your hands into a fist
- Place your fisted hands on your hips (just like Peter Pan)
- Tilt your head up and look towards the ceiling
- Put on a big smile...now see what happens
Needless to say, I joined in. Although we were all a bit self-conscious, I was nicely surprised how much my mood changed as well the atmosphere in the room. People were smiling, they were laughing and some even admitted they really enjoyed it. And the great part was it only took 5 seconds.
Interestingly, the lady went on to say she uses it in her life every day, with adults and children alike. And on every occasion, she succeeds in making people smile and change their mood.
I was really pleased I tried out the exercise and I’ve done it again since. Each time it has put a smile on my face, so I have to echo this lady’s sentiment. She is absolutely right.
I have to admit it’s days like these that I love training. Not only are they insightful and fun, they are inspiring too – especially when I meet wonderful people whom I can learn from too.