How to Have a Good Day: Harness the Power of Behavioral Science to Transform Your Working Life

by Caroline Webb

Distancing has been found to help when the immediate threat has passed, too. Research finds that people feel calmer when looking back at a recent unpleasant event if they describe it as an observer would have seen it. And learning how to use distancing seems to have a lasting beneficial effect, making it easier for people to stay calm the next time something stressful happens.6 Here are some ways to adopt a distanced perspective when you’re worried about something: Talk to yourself. Instead of saying to yourself: “I’m worried about this afternoon’s meeting because…,” try “You’re nervous about this afternoon’s meeting because…” Travel forward in time. Ask yourself: “What will I think about this a month from now, or a year from now?” Simple, but it’s a favorite of mine precisely because of that. Wear someone else’s shoes. Think about what someone else would say if they were describing the situation from a neutral perspective, for example that of a stranger passing by.