The inclusion of his personal experiences is a great addition, telling us we are not alone in our struggles even when we have high self-efficacy.
Feature image credit: Pan Macmillan Australia
One of my godmother’s favourite adages was, “You must be able to take care of yourself in order to take care of others.” If you are a first responder or in a leadership position, work in a stressful environment, or need to manage difficult circumstances in your personal life, you must be able to take care of yourself first, in order to excel, thrive and grow.
Throughout The Paramedic Mindset, author, paramedic and podcast host Leigh Anderson recounts multiple autobiographical stories, many of which took place in remote locations with limited resources or support. Often finding himself in situations where he had no choice but to manage crises alone, and confronted with some of the worst trauma imaginable, he developed a mindset capable of handling extreme stress. What is the difference between someone who flourishes in chaos and those who become overwhelmed? Are mistakes good or bad?
By controlling instinctual physiological responses, such as his breathing, Anderson learned to perform effectively under pressure. Backed by science and research, the tools and techniques he uses are shared with us readers, as he reveals how to overcome the flight/fight/freeze response and offers us valuable insights into building resilience. He also notes that increasing our self-efficacy means we do not sit comfortably in a paradise that does not exist – we must always be preparing.
Split into 13 chapters, with a prologue and a conclusion, The Paramedic Mindset also features a handy summary at the end of each chapter for ongoing work. Each chapter summary, coined a “Call to Action,” includes a list of key takeaways and more importantly, your key tasks. Anderson has found being a continual learner is a common attribute of all high-achieving individuals. Unsurprisingly then, the book offers an ultimate toolbox, an afterword, appendices, references used, a functional index, and to further your knowledge, a list of recommended readings.
The structure of the book, combined with Anderson’s ability to communicate complex concepts and sophisticated cognitive or physiological theories in a practical way (often using his personal stories) means the book never gets too technical or mundane. His approach is also well balanced. He explores seemingly opposing ideas – such as the danger of the normalisation of deviance, followed by a chapter on self-leadership where he encourages standing up against the status quo when it conflicts with your own moral code – highlighting that effective leadership is about knowing the nuanced differences.
With a Bachelor’s in Paramedic Science, a Graduate Certificate in Emergency Health, and years of field experience, Anderson knows how to get a job done. If you want to learn how to do so as well or are just a little bit curious about the life of a paramedic, this is a great read.
Reviewed by Rebecca Wu
The views expressed in this review belong to the author and not Glam Adelaide, its affiliates, or employees.
Distributed by: Pan Macmillan Australia
Released: June 2024
RRP: $36.99
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