So many of us have gone through work transitions during Covid. And many work environments have done the same, shifted in location so people can work from home, or change hours and work loads.
Some of this has been good. But what happened if you find yourself in a work environment that is asking more that you can handle?
Well here are some wellbeing work thoughts for that scenario:
- Get curious about your fellow employees. We are not talking about horoscopes here, or maybe we are ! but ask/watch/and request some information from people you work with about their working styles and things they are really good at. Knowing your associate’s strengths can be key to utilizing them, & increasing your own efficiency.
- Work on your morning routine. Having a structured start to your day, can be key to keeping your health & also key to giving yourself the balanced energy needed to face whatever feels like a huge “mountain” of work.
- Exercise daily. Yeah yeah … So we’ve all heard it a million times… But if you are in overwhelm, your body is in a certain high state of “alert”. To counter those actual chemicals, telling you to “run from the tiger”, even 10 minutes a day could shift it, Check out the 7 minute NYTimes workout – no equipment (except a chair), needed.
- Open your mouth & ask for help. You are no good to anyone if struggling alone without support. Perhaps some systems in your work environment could be improved, and would help others. Speak up to your managers or supervisors and let them know the “what is happening” story without the personalities.
- Learn the value of venting vs. complaining. This could be huge for you. Venting is talking openly to another person who can non-judgmentally listen to you. Venting is being able to see who you are in the scenario. Venting is also blowing off internal steam, and can allow for your brain to calm down, It happens with a true sense of working out what is happening internally so you can address it. Complaining can happen over & over & over again, & does not leave you with resolution or relief. It can be a state of close mindedness that is close to being a victim to your circumstances. You tend to say the same phrases over & over again …usually with blaming others as a main topic. Venting =good Complaining=Stuck
- Delegate – back to #1 – who can help you?
Denise’s
2 Cents:
All these suggestions can add to relief from overwhelm. And yes, I have had that feeling of “this is way too much/ I don’t know how to handle this/it will never end.”
And what I fall back on in over 30 years of working with people is keeping your body rested, fed with nutritious food, pushing physical limits or just moving is key. In other words it’s near impossible to get out of overwhelm if your body/mid or spirit have no reserve.
You may not change to work situation right away, but your body needs stability and rejuvenation before anything. Look to your own bodies needs before looking at the environment.
Link to 7 minute NYT workout:
https://www.nytimes.com/guides/well/activity/the-7-minute-workout