The workplace of 2024 is full of challenges that can be characterized as chaotic. Some of the prevailing challenges in the workplace are high turnover rates, staff/ customer conflict, micromanagement, and mental health.
The World Health Organization put out a study on the workplace which revealed that since the pandemic there has been a tsunami of new mental health diagnoses. As a result, employers are now challenged to create policies that address assisting the staff dealing with these obstacles in the workplace.
Recognizing that this new work environment can be chaotic, here are development tools to keep calm no matter what is going on.
When we think about survival tools, we think of being prepared for a disaster. Well, the survival tools required for the workplace are designed to keep your calm during chaos with co-workers, supervisors, or customers.
These are the tools that are necessary to control your emotions and behaviors so you can keep calm in the workplace amidst the chaos:
EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE SKILLS
Emotional intelligence involves being able to manage your own emotions and assessing the emotions of others. There are 4 elements to emotional intelligence: Self-awareness, self-regulation, social awareness, and relationship management. These four elements will assist you in keeping your cool in the workplace.
POSITIVE AFFIRMATIONS
Say positive things to yourself about yourself and your work environment. Instead of saying “I have to go to work” change it to “I get to go to work”, which shifts your mental state into gratitude instead of complaint.
Develop conflict management skills The one thing that is constant when working is conflict because people simply see things differently. One of the major skills necessary to resolve conflict is empathy (being able to see things from the other person’s point of view). It is also necessary to think about how the resolution can be a win-win.
SELF-CARE PRACTICES
Self-care means putting you first on the list of your priorities. Self-care is more than getting a mani/pedi, massage, or a facial. Other elements of self-care include being kind to yourself, setting healthy boundaries, and letting go of yesterday’s baggage.
STRESS MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES
Understanding how stress shows up within you is crucial in helping you to remain calm. Stress shows up physically: headaches, stomach upset, or grinding teeth; emotionally: depression, anxiety, irritability; behaviorally: angry outburst, social
withdrawal, and sleep problems. Once you identify how stress shows up for you, then create a plan on addressing the stress. Some options include deep breathing, relaxation techniques, laughing on purpose, and exercise.
SOCIAL SUPPORT
Create a circle of support that may include trusted friends and family members, a professional therapist, life coach, business coach, or spiritual support. When selecting a person to be in your circle of support look for people you can be honest with without judgment.
Professional development resources To improve in your role at work, seek training, certifications, and courses to increase your knowledge in your role. Being a lifelong learner helps you to bring your A-game to every opportunity.
As you review these survival tools, take whatever you find useful to help you keep calm in the chaotic workplace.
Dr. Sabrina Jackson is a speaker, tv/radio personality, author, life coach, and “The People Expert” helping people with people, even if that person is themselves.
You can catch her in the movie, Team Marriage on Amazon Prime or follow her on Instagram @
ThePeopleExpert_ website: www.sabrinajackson.com
