Sometimes to psych myself up to call billionaires on the phone, pitch a group of high-powered investors, or even interview a celebrity that I’m admittedly intimidated by, I use the Titanic Method. (I designed it as my own self-help tool.)
We’ve all watched the epic film James Cameron directed, so I want you to play along with me for a moment. Close your eyes and imagine you’re on the vessel the night it’s going down. Since I need you to keep reading, hold that image in your mind’s eye and remember the heartbreaking chaos that took place that evening.
As the ship began to sink and passengers finally realized how serious the situation was and their death was eminent, the bipolar effects of peace and acknowledgement, vs. panic and gut-wrenching fear permeated the air. Ship mechanics were trapped in the filling compartments as they desperately tried to repair their vessel. 1st class and Steerage dividing lines disappeared as everyone was fighting for their lives. It no longer mattered if you had $1,000,000 in the bank and traveled in the penthouse suite, or you only had the clothes on your back and won your passage on the Titanic in a poker game.
So you may be thinking this is an odd exercise on the morbid side. Perhaps? I use this imagery to accomplish three things: 1) No amount of money, prestige, title or experience can truly separate mankind, especially in catastrophic and trying situations. It’s the leveling field, and often when the shakedown happens you realize who flourishes in tough spots. I wonder what type of person I would have been, if on the Titanic as she went under. 2) I am reminded we are all ‘one’ and it makes me live with more compassion for my fellow humanity. (Yes, even while I’m getting skewered by doubters, investors, media, etc.) At the end of the day, as it’s been since the beginning of time, we are human beings that seek happiness and peace, have needs to fulfill, want to avoid suffering, and are learning about life on our own sacred journeys. 3) Big Sigh! I am not on that sinking ship and my life is great. Why make things scarier than they need to be for myself?
Try this exercise the next time you’re scared, intimidated or just want to feel connected to people and erase any invisible barriers.
Written on 9.11.07 in tribute those who acted with courage and character when the planes and towers went down.
