How many people do you know who go through life unfazed?
Nothing gets under their skin. Nothing angers them.
They don’t cry…ever. They chuckle, but rarely laugh.
They can’t be bothered with a new or revolutionary idea.
Composure is their primary goal, above all else.
There’s a degree of power that comes from being unfazed. The unfazed person appears to be in control of the situation…almost above what’s happening.
Being unfazed is appropriate, even ideal, in many situations.
But, the opposite is also true.
Consider the fun that can come from real laughter, especially when it’s shared. The emotional cleansing of a good cry, from joy or sadness. That anger and disappointment we feel when we lose can be channeled into breakthrough improvements that help us win next time.
What about being knocked over by the genius of a new idea, or the next big thing (whatever that is)? I recently saw part of a commercial showing a guy talking about a potential investment with his friend saying, “That’s nice, but what can anyone do with only 140 characters?” I don’t remember what the commercial was selling, but we all know now what can be done with only 140 characters.
As I think about the people who inspire me the most, and famous disrupters throughout history, they’re the ones who allowed themselves to be fazed. The great ones channel their fazed-ness into a passionate pursuit of excellence and innovation, helping each of us to do the same things in our own lives…if only we allow ourselves to be fazed.
Encouragement is Personal 