Is emotional uncertainty spreading about your workplace? Well, yeah.
In her article, How Do They Feel? author Agatha Gilmore says employees in these troubling economic times are stressed, angry, and overwhelmed (no news here.)
But here’s a new one: we’re also afraid. We have no control; the future is unknown. And since our visuals are soaring unemployment numbers, charts like the one with this post and silhouettes of stunned colleagues with quivering chins, we are scared.
The whole effect produces an unsightly performance rating for usually very productive people. Think D+.
“Fear inhibits cortical function. Your brain doesn’t function as clearly,” states Bruce Cryer, CEO of HeartMath, a performance management services company. As a result we don’t make great decisions or communicate well. The heart is also impacted in a negative way so your usual energy level is way low.
Used to a certain level of pressure and frustration and anxiety in the workplace, most do what they’ve always done – hunker down and work harder. This time, however, it’s a mistake.
Instead, you should find a way to build in some work flexibility and change up your routine – ask to work from home a couple of days. Or take a break from the mess. Go play with the kids tomorrow afternoon. Take a couple of hours sacked out on the couch in front of the TV tonight when you usually respond to e-mail. Actually, read a book in one sitting. Go visit your dad.
You might as well be taking steroid stress injections. This is not business as usual and working harder won’t improve your productivity.
Taking frequent enjoyable breaks and working less hours will. It’s your only chance to stay on top of your game – while you are still in the game.
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