How to Use the Worksheet, Part 3, Calm Down Your Threat Detector and Get in Touch with Positive Voices
Now let’s see how you can use your knowledge about the brain’s key functions to help yourself, a partner, or coaching client address their challenge. Note that the questions provided for the coach are suggestions. If you have other questions that work for you, by all means, use those. I encourage you to be mindful of the part of the brain you are addressing as your questions emerge.
Scene 2
Boss
No, you are doing that all wrong.
Threat Detector (in a deep threatening voice)
Danger, Will Robinson, Danger.
Coach
Take a couple of deep breaths.
Coach
Where are you feeling this in your body?
Sensory Emotion Spotter (a pained voice)
I’m feeling a pain in my stomach
Coach
Name the emotion accurately if possible. What would it be saying if your (throat, chest, stomach, etc.) had a voice? What’s at risk for you? What memories are triggered?
Learning Librarian (in a scared voice)
I spoke up to my father once and got smacked
Coach Speaking to Learning Librarian (Choose Question or Questions)
How might you reframe that memory? What’s the silver lining? How can you change the story to be more empowering?
Coach-Speaking to Optimism Center
What might be possible for you if this challenge is resolved?
Coach Speaking to Thinking Center
What is your goal in this situation? How committed are you to achieving it? What will it take to increase that commitment?
Coach Speaking to Habit Central
What habit is getting in your way?
Habit Central (in a sure voice)
“I never challenge a boss or anyone for that matter.”
