How decision-makers can improve with effective breathing techniques
Decision-makers in companies are often under great pressure and have to make clear decisions in stressful situations. Effective breathing techniques can help to strengthen mental clarity, concentration and inner calm. By consciously controlling your breathing, you can support your performance and face challenges with greater focus.
The importance of effective breathing techniques for managers
Breathing techniques are more than just tools for calming down. They help to supply the body with sufficient oxygen, promote stress resistance and improve mental performance. Managers in particular benefit from this by acting more clearly and confidently in meetings or negotiations. Conscious breathing control can reduce nervousness and inner restlessness, which leads to a better demeanour and greater persuasiveness.
A tried and tested method is combined chest and abdominal breathing: when breathing in, the air is first channelled into the chest area and then into the abdomen, and when breathing out, you start with the abdomen. This breathing technique supports relaxation and improves voice control - essential for authentic and convincing communication.
BEST PRACTICE at company XYZ (name changed due to NDA contract)
A manager from the finance sector integrated combined chest and abdominal breathing before presentations. She reports that she appears much calmer and more focussed in front of her team as a result, which improves the atmosphere in discussions and promotes decision-making processes.
Three effective breathing techniques for better performance
There are various effective breathing techniques that can support decision-makers. One of these is alternate breathing, in which you breathe alternately through the left and right nostril. This technique has a balancing effect on the nervous system and promotes mental clarity. Other techniques include consciously lengthening the exhalation and pausing to breathe for a short time after fully exhaling. They help to reduce stress and calm the carousel of thoughts.
Another approach is rhythmic breathing with counting pauses: for example, you breathe in for three seconds, hold your breath briefly and then breathe out for six seconds. Such breathing patterns promote relaxation and concentration in equal measure. Decision-makers use these techniques to be mentally prepared before challenging negotiations or decisions.
BEST PRACTICE at ABC (name changed due to NDA contract)
A manager in the technology sector uses alternate breathing every day before strategy meetings. She reports that this makes it easier for her to make decisions as she is able to focus more clearly and deal with complex issues more calmly.
Breathing exercises as part of a holistic performance concept
Effective breathing techniques complement other methods such as posture exercises or conscious pauses in conversation. For example, practising breathing exercises before an important performance can strengthen your voice and make you sound more authentic. It is crucial to breathe out deeply and completely in order to relax the body.
In practice, it is advisable to practise breathing techniques regularly - ideally at fixed times during the day or during upcoming stressful tasks. This is because regular training not only supports immediate performance, but can also increase stress resistance in the long term.
BEST PRACTICE at DEF (name changed due to NDA contract)
A decision-maker in the marketing sector supplements his preparations for public appearances with breathing pauses and conscious abdominal breathing. Since then, he feels his voice is stronger and that he comes across as more confident and self-assured. This is perceived positively by colleagues and partners.
How to effectively master everyday life as a decision-maker with breathing techniques
Effective breathing techniques provide more energy and calmness in everyday life. Those who use them in a targeted manner gain clarity and can concentrate better on important tasks. Simple breathing exercises that can be performed anytime and anywhere can help - such as a short, conscious breath before a conversation or a pause with a deep exhalation during stress peaks.
In this way, managers avoid stress and a hectic pace affecting the quality of their decisions. Instead, they remain more balanced and resilient. This also has a positive effect on their team, as they are role models for sustainable self-management.
My analysis
Effective breathing techniques offer a practical way to improve your own performance as a decision-maker. They promote concentration, inner calm and a powerful voice. Whether alternate breathing, conscious breathing pauses or the combination of chest and abdominal breathing - the right breathing helps you to master challenges more clearly. It is important to regularly integrate breathing techniques into everyday life and to use them as helpful impulses for stress management and better self-management.
Further links from the text above:
[1] 3 breathing techniques to improve performance - On Running
[3] How to radiate more confidence during presentations - Intem
[5] Strong voice by Stimmbaum - Voice training | Speaker
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