“The amygdala is an almond-shaped section of nervous tissue located in the temporal (side) lobe of the brain. There are two amygdalae per person normally, with one amygdala on each side of the brain. They are thought to be a part of the limbic system within the brain, which is responsible for emotions, survival instincts, and memory.” (reference study.com)
When we push ourselves to the limits physically, mentally, and emotionally; something under-the-hood reacts with something like an overload, a blown gasket or ”I’m giving yah all we’ve got captain!” at which point the inner-Scottie goes rogue and out-of-control. At that moment, we have probably hijacked the amygdala - which means we have flipped a switch initiating the fight, flight, or freeze response. It’s important to note that when it comes to rational behavior, this reaction becomes a point-of-no-return. Once triggered, this response is powerful, and the behavior associated with it is reflected in Marvell’s fictional character, the Hulk, for whom stress provokes an exaggerated physical and emotional transformation. Once triggered (like the Hulk), we really don't have much control over our emotions and/or behavior. Thousands of years ago, this part of the brain was designed to help us survive as naked and vulnerable apes when under attack by Saber-toothed cats, Grizzly bears, or other hijacked humanoids. It may be no surprise that the amygdala has been found to be linked to PSTD behavior.
“When the amygdala perceives a threat, it can lead that person to react irrationally and destructively” “An amygdala hijack exhibits three signs: strong emotional reaction, sudden onset, and post-episode realization if the reaction was inappropriate” (reference Wikipedia)
Most of us have had direct experience of being on the transmitting as well as on the receiving end of this kind of hijack. Although, regret and embarrassment may arise after the event passes, apologies may not be sufficient. Even a minor episode of this type can do lasting damage for the most solid relationships. Leading me to ask the question - Is this reaction an unavoidable consequence of being a human who is wired like a caveman yet living in today’s unpredictable and complex global marketplace? Not necessarily…
One obvious choice is to slow-down the pace of life, work less hours, and lead a more balanced home and work life. That would take a serious shift in priorities and a commitment to self-care as a means to success. However impractical and unimaginable that may sound, this balance can lead to greater creativity and productivity as well as improved receptivity and relationships, all fundamental to success. Additionally (and perhaps alternatively), two simple and easy to implement tools for helping avoid a regrettable hijacking meltdown include: meditation and HALT. Consistent, daily meditation improves our self-awareness and our ability to reduce emotional reactivity. Self-awareness helps us to observe this phenomenon BEFORE the point-of-no-return and allows us to take corrective action to “cool our jets.” This state of self-awareness also aids in recalling and engaging another helpful tool - H.A.L.T which is an acronym for a regular “checking-in” on our basic state of wellbeing.
HALT represents the phrase - Am I Hungry, Angry, Lonely, or Tired? (For some it would not be too extreme to have the individual letters of HALT tattooed to the finger tips of their dominant hand). Like learning to master a musical instrument or improving your golf game, daily commitment and practice is key. Perhaps, the highest priority of a leader is self awareness and self-care. Similar to the recommendation of a stewardess to: in case of emergency, place an oxygen mask on yourself FIRST before assisting others,we can be aware of and then tend to ourselves before tending to others. That is, before we can lead others we must learn to lead ourselves.
You who are journalists, writers, citizens, you have the right and duty to say to those you have elected that they must practice mindfulness, calm and deep listening, and loving speech. This is universal thing, taught by all religions.
- Thich Nhat Hanh
