Shift Happens: Managing Fear Through Change

February 14, 2020: Dr. Romie, breaks down the neuropsychology of why the brain's initial response to change is fear.  When fear sets in, the instinctual response is to question, "Am I safe?" and "Am I cared for?"

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In the workplace, change is inevitable and also considered a four-letter word. The human mind seeks comfort in daily routines and rituals.  When our environment changes, our brain shifts into a high-stress mode and then feeds into fear.   

In this episode, Chief Wellness Officer and host, Dr. Romie, breaks down the neuropsychology of why the brain’s initial response to change is fear.  When fear sets in, the instinctual response is to question, “Am I safe?” and “Am I cared for?”

As our company faces change, Dr. Romie discusses how Evo’s mindfulness program and guiding principles can leaders manage emotions and operations. 

Evolution Hospitality is a third-party hospitality management company with corporate headquarters in San Clemente, California.  For more information visit www.evolutionhospitality.com

Show Notes:

  • [01:51] I’m going to break down specific skill sets for leaders. 
  • [02:20] Change can feel like a four letter word the “f word” fear. 
  • [02:39] When our routines are disrupted our brains get hijacked and our brain gets shifted into fear.
  • [02:49] Leaders and teams who succeed know how to put actions in place to manage change and manage emotions.
  • [04:01]  Unexpected changes in our routine can create fear. Fear is created in levels one and two of our brain or our subconscious.
  • [04:23] Level one or the basement is our survival center. This is where our life supporting regulations happen. When fear comes in our mind defaults to thinking from this area. 
  • [04:52] During times of change, the emotions present can feel like a lack of safety in the workplace.
  • [05:09] Level two is the limbic system or the emotion and memory center.  When we don’t feel safe, our minds start asking if we are cared for.
  • [06:20] Level three is responsible for analysis, processing data, decision making, and taking action. If levels one and two aren’t feeling safe, fear can take over and false evidence appears real.
  • [07:50] Start in the basement and assess level one. Do you feel safe?
  • [08:54] For level number two ask, “Am I cared for?” We are a people driven culture. 
  • [10:35] To transform fear into calm stick to your daily rituals of wellness, especially sleep. At times of stress, we often let our wellness rituals go. I asked you to stick to it.
  • [11:14] Find a trusted advisor to talk to. 
  • [11:35] Try the loving-kindness meditation. It’s based on self-compassion and showing compassion for others. 
  • [00:13:16] Make sure your team members hear the words, “you are safe I care about you.”

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