Eyes on the prize

Staying focused can become especially difficult in crisis scenarios. Those essaying high-pressure roles share their mantras to stay in the zone

Eyes on the prize

Ajinkya Rahane stayed off social media during the Australia series to improve his focus. Pic/AFP

During the Indian cricket team’s tour of Australia, what really stood out in addition to their remarkable win was stand-in skipper Ajinkya Rahane’s deft captaincy and leadership skills. In a recent interview, Rahane revealed that he personally tuned out all the noise by switching off from social media; he also encouraged his team to do so. Elaborating on this practice, Rahane explained that his goal was for himself and his team to not be drawn into all the discouraging voices that focused on their failings during the tour as this would impair their confidence. Professionals who, like Rahane, have devised rituals to stay calm and focused in their high-pressure jobs share these with us.

Get an early start

On days when I have an urgent or important deadline, I like to begin especially early, at about 6.30 am. I try to finish most of my work that requires deep thinking within the first four hours of the day, which I find the most productive. As the day progresses, you become entangled with other thoughts and worries. I spend the rest of the day re-thinking and making enhancements to my idea.
– Gourav Rakshit, COO of Viacomm 18

Relaxation and grounding exercises

In my job, I often perform a bypass surgery a day. I am keenly aware that while on most days things will go as planned, there is still an off chance that things can drastically go wrong. Before making the first incision, I take a few deep breaths to ground myself. Chanting a simple mantra can help, as staying calm is important in my line of work. During the day, I also listen to calming music, such as ghazals by Jagjit Singh.
– Dr Bipeenchandra Bhamre, thoracic surgeon, Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital and Research Centre

Have a plan

Events such as election results or the recent budget can result in very busy and hectic days for me. I try to get an early start so that I can practise deep breathing exercises to keep my mind alert. I also try to eliminate all mundane tasks such as choosing and ordering meals. In my work, a delay of even a few seconds can translate into losses. I also like to eat light meals that keep me energised without making me lethargic, and keep enough drinking water close at hand.
– Devesh Arora, derivative trader

Clear mental clutter

I make sure to clear my mind of all mental clutter so that I can streamline my thoughts for the day. I isolate myself, and then take a brief walk so that I can ‘hear’ myself think. I then give myself time to address each thought, before retaining the ones that will help me with my art. This compartmentalisation keeps me focused and inspired.
– Vikram Arora, artist

Strike a balance

I have turned off all notifications on my phone, including mail notifications. Now, I see updated messages only when I specifically check the apps. I have also stopped using the phone for official communication except for calls — our internal team works on Slack. This has streamlined our communication and alleviated the pressure of replying instantly. Finally, I plan my wellness, just as I do with my work. This includes areas such as health, friends and family, and fun. Focusing on these areas can restore a sense of balance to even the most hectic days.
– Rashmi Dhanwani, founder, The ArtX Company

Stay in the loop

I find that self-isolating at the start of a big day can create a vacuum that is filled with confusing thoughts. I like to engage in light reading about my case, refer to legal websites and engage in topical conversations with my colleagues before an important case. This keeps me oriented and sets the day’s rhythm.
– Teena Shah, lawyer

Positive self-talk

As a relatively young lawyer, it can be intimidating to enter a courtroom where I will be arguing against senior counsels. It is important for me to stay motivated and focused. I engage in positive self-talk and affirmations.
– Sonam Chandwani, managing partner, KS Legal and Associates

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