I was recently reading about SEAL training tips (check out SEAL SURVIVAL GUIDE: A Navy SEAL’s Secrets to Surviving Any Disaster (Gallery Books) by author Cade Courtley). One of the techniques they use is to think through scenarios that might occur and then process what their response would be in that situation. For example, a seal might envision they were in a shopping mall when terrorists start shooting automatic weapons. They visualize what actions they might take, where they would go, what they would do, and so on.
This is very much like what is taught in baseball, from the earliest youth leagues on up. You are in the field. If the ball is hit to you, what will you do? Your response depends on a number of factors: what is the inning, are there base runners, how many outs are there, is it a ground ball or a fly ball, etc. And as the game progresses, the situation changes so that for each batter, you are making a new strategy for what actions you will take if the ball is hit to you.
We can use the same principles that are effective for baseball players and Navy SEALs in our business, career, and our life. Start thinking about events that might occur today. Is it likely that your boss might hit you with an off-the-wall request? If so, could you pre-think about the types of responses you might offer in return? Would your response potentially be different depending on variables (i.e.: are you alone or in a group of other employees? Does your boss seem to be in a good mood or a bad mood?). By brainstorming the events likely to occur, and how you might respond to them, you will be better prepared to address them confidently, using a thoughtful response instead of a knee-jerk reaction. And as you practice this, you will become more confident in how you address future similar situations.