COVID-19 is an event that has created strain in every aspect of life—an understatement, of course. That strain in pivotal times creates a natural fight or flight or response—or response or reaction—that truly separates the winners from the losers. This is exemplified by Warren Buffett, who has stuck to his guns through thick and thin and has amassed a $73 billion net worth by following his advice to “simply attempt to be fearful when others are greedy and to be greedy only when others are fearful.” He is the embodiment of impulse control, an EQ-I competency of Impulse Control through which I have coached thousands over the years.

Of course, it is easier said than done. Otherwise, that $73 billion would be in many more hands than just Mr. Buffett’s. But how can you be more like him in investing? How can you reduce your stress levels, leading to better health? How can you be an optimistic and decisive leader in your community, family, and business to inspire the great achievements of tomorrow when everyone else is headed for the exits?

The differences between the two are stark and essential and, in many ways, separate what we want in life from what we don’t. After all, are some of our greatest heroes called first responders or first reacters?

So what can you do to be a responder instead of reacter?

  • Take a walk – You don’t have to be under the threat of a global pandemic to realize that you have more control of your faculties if you interrupt your flow every few hours to breathe in fresh air or have an interaction you enjoy.
  • Meditate – Yes, this is overused, but maybe because it’s so overwhelmingly effective—likely the most common antidote that so many previously lost people have used to take control of their lives.
  • Talk – When other people react more calmly than you expect to your perceived tragedies or you see their overblown woes, your difficulties will seem a lot less complicated.
  • Challenge Yourself for Fun – Whether it’s a musical instrument or pick-up basketball with some friends, engaging in activities that challenge you while having fun will get you in the mental rhythm of strategizing and employing grit the moment a difficulty arises.
  • Sleep – People who sleep less than seven hours per night have been proven to be more anxious and reactive in their every-day lives.

As elementary as these things sound, so many don’t do them. Since they are elementary, what a great opportunity with many activities shut down to stop to bring some of these healthy habits into your life.