Author and leader of Unhurried Living, Alan Fadling, discusses the impact of anxiety on personal and organizational dynamics with host Steve Cuss. They explore the significance of rest, leadership, and spiritual connection in combating anxiety and fostering peace. The conversation delves into the differences between 'I am anxiety' and 'I have anxiety' beliefs, understanding Jesus' presence in times of anxiety, and how anxiety influences our engagement with culture. Tune in for insights on finding peace in the midst of turmoil.
Recognize anxiety within oneself and others to prevent its spread in organizational settings.
Transition from seeking peace through changing circumstances to finding peace through God's presence amid challenges for more effective outcomes and healthier decision-making.
Deep dives
Systems Theory and Non-Anxious Presence
Systems Theory, introduced in a trauma hospital, emphasizes the ability to recognize anxiety within oneself and others, aiming to prevent spreading it. The concept of a non-anxious presence is highlighted, emphasizing connection and relaxation into God's presence to combat anxiety.
Anxiety as a Personal and Organizational Dynamic
Anxiety, identified by mental health professional Edwin Friedman, is viewed as both a personal and organizational characteristic. Leaders often use anxiety as a driving force, equating it with high standards and productivity. However, the practice of peace over anxiety leads to more effective outcomes and a healthier approach to decision-making.
Anxiety, Hurry, and Relationship with God
Anxiety, often intertwined with hurry and the need for productivity, can hinder one's relationship with God. The speaker explores the transition from seeking peace by changing circumstances to finding peace through God's presence amid challenging situations, emphasizing the importance of aligning with God's peace in daily endeavors.
Identification and Management of Anxiety in Leadership
Leaders who are unaware of their anxiety often use work as a means to alleviate internal stress, leading to a self-focused work approach. In team settings, an anxious leader can inadvertently redirect team focus towards managing their anxiety, detracting from collaborative work. Recognizing and addressing personal anxiety is crucial for effective leadership and team dynamics.
“Jesus cares for our troubles, but they don’t worry him.”
So says Alan Fadling, who joins host Steve Cuss on this episode of Being Human. Fadling is an author and the leader of Unhurried Living, a non-profit that trains people to rest deeper, live fuller and lead better. His latest book, The Non-Anxious Life, draws from spiritual formation and touches on systems theory, as well.
Cuss and Fadling discuss the ways that anxiety is not just a personal dynamic, but an organizational one. They consider what Dallas Willard had to say about anxiety and peace, how anxiety communicates that God is not there for us, and what it may look like to remember that Jesus is present with us. They talk about the differences in believing that “I am anxiety” and “I have anxiety.” And they consider how anxiety influences leadership, our sense of connection with Jesus, and our engagement with culture.
Tune in for an episode that sheds light on the way of peace.