The Seven Keys To Calm by A.M. Matthews
Essential Steps for Staying Calm Under Any Circumstances
May 4, 2009
A.M. Matthews suggests that there are no type A people and states in the introduction, “There is only type A behavior and outlook.” This is a more positive approach because behaviors and outlooks can be changed.
The First Key: Key of Clarity
This key addresses anxiety and the destructive actions that are a consequence of acting impulsively. A.M. Matthews explains how to view anxiety with objectivity so that people aren’t so worked up with worry that they become immobilized. The ability to remain objective is important because it buys time, which prevents rash action.
The Second Key: The Key of Compassion
This is an excellent and thought provoking chapter that examines motives and the difference between control and compassion. Trying to help and trying to conform someone are two different things, but unfortunately control is often disguised as help.
The Third Key: The Key of Crisis
Crisis forces people to think on their feet, prioritize, live in the moment and come up with a solution. A.M. Matthews shows others how to accept and surrender to change and crisis.
The Fourth Key: Key of Cycles
Even when good things happen, people sometimes panic and wonder if some kind of bomb will hit them. Instead of fighting these ups and downs with worry or superstition, The Seven Keys to Calm show how to celebrate change. When people are flexible, they’re more likely to be able to adapt and succeed.
The Fifth Key: The Key of Cessation
This key is all about dealing with mortality. By becoming obsessed with possessions, Matthews observes that this is used as an attempt to calm a fear of death. Since no one can take any of these material things with them, she helps bring the focus back on the things that people can leave behind.
The sixth key points out how coincidences and mistakes are part of life. Things don’t always go exactly as planned, but some of the best results come out of the unexpected. The seventh key wraps up The Seven Keys to Calm and explains how to practice all the keys daily with self discipline.
- The Seven Keys to Calm (A.M. Matthews, publisher Pocket Books, ISBN: 0-671-00027-6, 1997) expands on easy to understand methods of maintaining calm in a world that is often chaotic. It is full of humor along with advice and examples that would be useful for anyone who’s feeling overwhelmed or suffering from anxiety.
About A.M. Matthews
A.M. Matthews is a psychotherapist who has authored several books including Why Did I Marry You Anyway, How to Manage Your Mother and Your Money, Your Self. She also teaches workshops and seminars and has been a guest on Oprah, Today, NBC News and CBS This Morning.
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