Remaining calm in challenging situations is not just beneficial for oneself but also has a profound impact on those around us. The mantra “Calm Is Contagious,” used by the US Navy SEALs, highlights the importance of maintaining calm in high-pressure situations. Bear Grylls, a renowned adventurer and survival expert, reflecting on this principle, says,
“When we panic, everything becomes worse. For ourselves and those around us. Conversely, when we are calm, we gain time to think and plan, and we conserve focus and energy for what we really need it for.”
The preservation of focus and energy in critical moments is so important. Making calm a habit, especially during crunch times, is invaluable not only for survival but also for overall life management. Calmness is a muscle and a state of mind that can be practiced and strengthened.
This ability to remain steady and collected under pressure is especially important in aviation, where decisions often have significant consequences. Whether handling an in-flight emergency, conducting routine operations, or managing personal stressors, a calm approach can lead to more effective outcomes and inspire others to adopt the same mindset.
Take the extraordinary story of Heath Bagnall and Matt Rogatski, two aviation professionals who demonstrated exceptional calm during a life-threatening situation. In late September 2020, the New Zealand (NZ) Governor-General, Dame Patsy Reddy, awarded them the Royal Humane Society of NZ medal for their courage after they rescued a man from the fast-flowing Taramakau River near Kumara, New Zealand in May 2019*.
Heath, with 8000 hours of flying experience, and Matt were on a weed spraying operation when they were called to action. Matt heard a bang and the engine stop of a jet boat that had been joyriding the river. He saw two men in the river without lifejackets and radioed Heath, who quickly jettisoned chemicals to lighten their R44 helicopter and headed back to the river. They executed a precise and methodical rescue, showcasing their calm decision-making under pressure. Despite the adrenaline and urgency, they remained focused and communicated effectively, ultimately saving one man’s life.
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Remaining calm in challenging situations is crucial for effective teamwork in aviation. In a multi-crew cockpit during an emergency, the demeanor of each pilot plays a significant role. If one pilot starts to exhibit stress, it can complicate the management of the emergency and heighten tension. Conversely, calmness is contagious. When one pilot remains composed, it helps the other crew members stay focused and clear-headed. This collective calm ensures that the crew can collaborate efficiently, addressing the emergency effectively and maintaining overall flight safety.
In these challenging situations, it’s important not to outwardly display too much stress, even if internally you’re working hard to manage the situation. Think of it like a duck gliding smoothly over the water, while underneath, its feet are paddling furiously. This analogy perfectly captures the principle of maintaining an outward calm while working diligently behind the scenes. By projecting calmness, pilots can better communicate and coordinate, setting a tone of control and confidence that enables better decision-making and smoother execution of tasks. This ripple effect of calmness extends beyond immediate safety, fostering a cockpit environment where challenges are met with clear thinking and cooperative problem-solving.
This principle extends to personal life as well. Imagine the daily stressors of managing work, family, and personal ambitions. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed, juggling multiple responsibilities and trying to meet various expectations. However, adopting a mindset of calm judgement can transform how we handle these pressures. This is practical advice that we can apply today. By stepping back, assessing the situation with a clear mind, and acting thoughtfully, we can navigate challenges more effectively.
For pilots, maintaining this calm is essential, both in and out of the cockpit. It’s not just about handling emergencies but about fostering a mindset that prioritises steady, reasoned actions. Encouraging the practice of journaling can be beneficial. Writing down thoughts and reflecting on experiences helps in maintaining this calm disposition. It allows one to process emotions and events without immediate reactivity, leading to better judgement and decision-making.
Incorporating the wisdom of the US Navy SEALs, adopting a calm approach doesn’t mean eliminating stress or challenges but changing how we respond to them. Remaining calm is a choice – something we can control. It’s about being the steady hand in turbulence, the calm voice in chaos, and the composed presence that inspires confidence in others. Reading our articles on resilience and developing a strong mindset at Perspectives.pilotlifetraining.com can provide additional valuable insights for you as a pilot.
New Zealand and Australia’s aviation community exemplifies the principle of remaining calm under pressure. By striving to embody this calmness, we as pilots and individuals can contribute to safer skies and achieve a more balanced life.
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Being calm and composed is not just a trait but a cultivated skill, beneficial in all aspects of life. Be that person today – the pilot who remains calm in every situation. Like the duck gliding smoothly over water, project calmness even while working diligently beneath the surface. It’s your choice. Choose today to be the steady hand in turbulence, the calm voice in chaos, and the composed presence that inspires confidence in others. That’s what being a true professional is all about. It’s also the foundation for a balanced and fulfilling personal life.
Embrace this mindset and make a positive impact on those around you.
* Read more about this in the New Zealand Civil Aviation Authority Vector magazine
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