"The urge to ascend in control, the drive to survive, is rooted deep in our evolutionary past."

We're all wired for survival. It's just part of our DNA. This drive to stay alive and be in control of our surroundings isn't something new—it's been with us since the beginning of time, buried deep within our evolutionary roots. Ages ago, our ancestors had to be on their toes, always ready to tackle whatever came their way, whether it was hunting for food or escaping predators. This urge to ascend, to be on top of things, was crucial for their survival.

Think about cavemen. They didn't have the luxuries we do. No cozy homes, no supermarkets, no 911 to call in case of danger. Every day was a fight for survival. They had to be alert, resourceful, and in control of their environment just to make it through the day. This need to be on top of their game was what kept them alive. And these instincts? They're still in us today. Sure, we're not usually running from lions, but the drive to survive and control our circumstances is still there.

Let's bring this idea into the present. Imagine you're at work, and a big project just landed on your desk. It's a mess—deadlines are tight, the team's disorganized, and the stakes are high. You feel that rush of adrenaline, your heart races, and your mind kicks into high gear. You take a deep breath and start breaking the project down, piece by piece, assigning tasks, setting deadlines, and bringing order to chaos. That’s your survival instinct at play, pushing you to take control, to "ascend" in the situation so you can survive—professionally speaking, of course.

So how can you leverage this ancient wisdom? Start by recognizing that these feelings of urgency and the need for control are natural. When you feel overwhelmed, instead of panicking, use that surge of energy to your advantage. Break problems down into manageable chunks. Prioritize what needs to be done and tackle the most critical tasks first. And remember, it's okay to ask for help. Our ancestors did it—no one survived alone.

Imagine this: You're a parent juggling work and family life. One evening, you're trying to cook dinner, help your kids with homework, and prepare for a big meeting the next day. The house is chaotic. Instead of getting overwhelmed, you take a step back. You delegate—ask your partner to set the table, get the kids involved in simpler tasks, and focus on one thing at a time. It's not about controlling everything perfectly but managing the chaos in a way that keeps everything moving smoothly.

In the end, it's about harnessing that deep-rooted drive we all have. We want to survive, to thrive, and to be on top of our game. Understanding this can help us navigate modern-day challenges with the same tenacity and resourcefulness that kept our ancestors alive. So next time you feel that urge to take control, remember—it’s just your inner caveman, helping you ascend.