If you ever have to go on a business trip, but you have a fear of flying, then this can be incredibly stressful. You will want to be able to go on the trip and be productive, but this can cause a tremendous amount of stress and anxiety. A fear of flying is common, and while it may never go away completely, there are a few steps that you can take to reduce stress and anxiety. This will hopefully help the flight to be more bearable and allow you to be productive once you arrive. Read on to find out more.
Know the Facts
Many people have a fear of flying, and it is understandable, but it is also essential to be aware of just how safe this form of transport is – you are, in fact, nineteen times safer in a plane than in a car (although this is not a reason to fear driving too! Learning how flying works can also be helpful because this will show that it is not as dangerous as it seems on a surface level.
Tell Your Colleagues
One of the best things to do is to tell your colleagues that you have a fear of flying. This can feel good to get off your chest, and you will find that when people are aware of your fear, it can make it easier, plus they will be able to find ways to support and help throughout the experience.
Arrive at The Airport with Time to Relax
Anxiety will spike if you are in a massive rush to get through the airport, so you should always give yourself plenty of time to get through. You should have some time to explore the departure lounge and to have some food and drink beforehand, but you do not want to spend too long here, as this can also add to anxiety. If you decide to have an alcoholic drink before or during the flight, be careful not to overdo it.
Book a Parking Spot
Driving to the airport puts you in control of your journey, but you do not want to have to feel stressed trying to find somewhere to park. Look online to find somewhere to reserve a spot, such as Tampa Airport parking, and often you will find that this is a way to make savings too. This will help you to arrive at the airport feeling calm and with plenty of time.
Know Relaxation Techniques
Relaxation techniques can be highly effective at reducing anxiety on the day of your flight. Breathing exercises, meditation, and positive visualization can all be worth learning before your flight.
Find Ways to Occupy Yourself
Another way to reduce anxiety is to have ways to occupy yourself. This might include doing some work, watching a film, reading, listening to a podcast, or anything else to occupy your mind.
Seek Professional Help
If you have severe flying anxiety, then it is worth seeking professional help. They may be able to help you to reduce your anxiety or prescribe medication, which could help.
Hopefully, these tips will help you to overcome your fear of flying and allow you to have a productive and enjoyable business trip.