Coaching Corner: A different kind of addiction
By "Coach" Marilou Butcher Roth
When we think of addiction, I am sure alcohol and drugs come to mind -- these are powerful addictions that can change the course of someone’s life. Today, I want to address another addiction that does not impact to the same degree, but impact it does. What I am referring to is the addiction to adrenaline. This industry is quite prone to this particular type of addiction, with our fast paced schedule.
Our bodies are created to bring forth adrenaline when we truly need it -- a dangerous situation perhaps. What can happen, however, is that we get ourselves into that “hyped up” space to get through the day. When you are constantly in that high paced state of adrenaline, your body actually weakens by using too much energy -- what goes up must come down! You are creating a life style that is not sustainable! Don’t yell at me here, this is where we need to look at our results to see what is happening.
When we operate at this fast pace, we unconsciously will create drama or crises to keep the adrenalin kicked into gear. We tell ourselves that we are operating at this fast pace because we have to -- so much to do! You may not be able to identify a possible adrenaline addiction for yourself, but how do others view you? These may give you some clues:
- Do you have friends or family tell you they do not feel listened to?
- Are you consistently late?
- Do others comment on how busy you always are?
- Do you get comments about the amount of stress you have in your life?
If you are beginning to think that adrenaline addiction might be affecting you, congratulations! Now you can begin to slow down and enjoy your life more. It will help if you watch your caffeine and sugar intake. If you regularly have caffeine, consider trying half decaf. And, when you have your beverage, sit down and enjoy it! One of my strongest memories of visiting the UK was spending time in their Rest Stops. Ordering coffee was a pleasure, using a small version of a French Press that clearly wasn’t going with you. If you wanted that coffee, you had to be civilized and sit down to enjoy it!
Another tip is to give yourself more time than you think you need to arrive at an appointment. That will keep you from racing to get there.
Basically, you need to bring more awareness to your individual pace -- move at a pace that is comfortable for you, and you will find yourself more productive. Trust me, multi-tasking is NOT a skill!
This week, focus your attention on your pace and how you feel -- you may be surprised by what you find!
Marilou Butcher Roth
Marilou Butcher Roth is the owner of The MBR Group, a coaching and training company working primarily with REALTORS who have a desire to work and live from a more inspired place. She is also the Broker/Owner of Group REALTORS in Cincinnati.
Marilou is a member of the Ohio REALTORS Board of Directors and past chairman of the organization’s Communications Committee.
