When I was learning to scuba dive, one of the most important things I learned was that, when in trouble, nothing escalates you into the danger zone as much as panic. So we were given the mantra to “Stop – Breath – and Think” if we ever found ourselves in a situation that needed our full attention.
The same holds true at a trade show or event. All exhibit/event managers know that any one of a hundred things can (and often does) go awry in a major way at show site. If you panic, you won’t give a solution a chance to surface and chances are things will just go from bad to worse.
Next time you’re managing a show or event and circumstances seem to be crumbling around you…
- Stop! Try to stop “running” – If you can, try to step away from the situation for a minute.
- Breath – Panic tends to causehyperventilation, which just causes more panic. So take a couple of good deep breaths and slow your breathing down to calm yourself.
- Think… Once you’re a bit calmer, clear your mind of the “disaster” and allow yourself to explore options that arise. Usually a good Plan B solution is available if you just give yourself the time and clear mind to let it come through.
Remember if you ever find yourself feeling panic rising, just STOP – BREATH – and THINK. You’ll be surprised how much more likely you are to find a great solution.
What do you think? Do you have any examples of how you stayed calm and found solutions when “disaster” struck?
About Susan Brauer
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