Managing Stress for Reds
Erikson recommends direct instructions or physical activity for stressed people he classifies as Reds. He presents these as ways to redirect agitation and competitive energy.
THE IDEA
If you have the authority to give a direct order, the answer is simple: Ask them to get a hold of themselves. It actually works. Another way to make it easier for Reds in stressful situations is to send them home and tell them to do some physical exercise—anything to burn some of that frustrated, restless energy. Send them to a place where they can run in some kind of competition, spending their energy on winning something that will be of no importance to the group. When they come back, most of their aggression will have dissipated.
When to use it
A manager dealing with a stressed, aggressive Red employee in a fast-paced workplace.
A team leader preparing a Red colleague for a high-stakes presentation that is causing anxiety.
A coach helping a Red athlete channel pre-competition nervousness into physical activity.
Evaluating whether direct instructions or a break for physical activity would fit a particular workplace situation.
FROM THEORY TO EVERYDAY LIFE
In practice
Calming a Stressed Red Employee
A manager notices that a Red team member is visibly agitated and snapping at colleagues. Instead of engaging in a debate, the manager says firmly, 'Take a break and go for a run. Come back when you've burned off that energy.' The employee follows the directive, returns calmer, and resumes work productively.
Redirecting Competitive Energy
During a high-pressure project, a Red leader becomes overly aggressive in meetings. The project lead sends them to the company's recreational area to play a quick game of racquetball against a colleague. After the game, the leader returns with a more collaborative attitude.
A MOMENT TO REFLECT
Put it to work.
Think of a time you observed someone under stress. Would Erikson’s recommendation have suited that person and situation?
What other methods could be effective for helping Reds manage stress, given their preference for control and action?
How does this approach differ from what you might recommend for other personality types (e.g., Blues or Yellows)?
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION
Source texts
- Surrounded By Idiots (Thomas Erikson)