How to Reduce Your Workplace Worries
When you’re working on a smaller task does a larger project pop into your mind and derail your progress? When you’re in a meeting are you unable to focus because you’re worried you won’t finish an unrelated task on time? Workplace worries are common. Some people only have a few and other people are completely overwhelmed by them. If you want to reduce your workplace worries so you can stay productive, follow these steps!
1. Sort into 3 Categories: The first thing you should do at the beginning or end of a workday is write down your worries in three categories: delete, maybe later, and active concern. This brain dump process prevents you from worrying about things that are less important and helps you understand which tasks you need to prioritize in order to reduce your worries.
2. Identify Negative Sources: If your workplace worries aren’t stemming from an unorganized schedule or an overwhelming pile of projects, you need to identify where they’re coming from. Whether it’s coworker relationships, company culture, or simply feeling like you aren’t growing enough within the company, these negative sources will often cause more workplace worries than you need. Once you’ve identified yours, make steps to try to change that situation and, if they’re stemming from unchangeable circumstances, think about finding a new job that won’t bring you as much daily turmoil.
3. Improve Where You Can: Sometimes workplace worries can simply come from a lack of confidence in your skillset. If that’s the case, write down what areas you’re worried about and try to identify which skills each of those areas requires. When you’re done you’ll have a great list of skills you need to work on improving and, with a little time and effort out of the office, you’ll gain the confidence and knowledge you need to reduce your worries!
4. Tear Up Destructive Thoughts: This one may seem a little silly but if your workplace worries seem unfounded, exaggerated, or they’re getting in the way of you starting projects you need to work on you should write them down on separate pieces of paper. Then tear those pieces of paper up! This tactic is commonly used by therapists and is a well-known coping mechanism for people who tend to worry more than they should.
Worry in the workplace can get in the way of productivity, progress, and career advancement. But, with these 4 tactics by your side, you’ll be able to reduce your workplace worries to a healthy, manageable level and prevent yourself from burning out!