As we go through life, stressful situations happen. Starting a new job is one of the most stressful situations we will face, but there are ways to turn that stress or anxiety into productivity. Use these tips to turn this or any stressful situation into a positive one.
Find Balance
There is a lot of change that comes with a new job. Suddenly you’re learning how to communicate with new coworkers and a new boss, navigating a new commute, realizing new expectations you have in the role, adapting to a new routine and adjusting to a new work environment. The list of all the ‘new’ elements a job change brings can go on and on, but there are also some things that don’t change. These constants can bring some sense of normalcy, or balance.
Maybe for you, your exercise routine brings balance. When you start a new job or are going through any stressful situation, hold on to that routine. Continue to work out at a specific time each day. Maybe cooking a home cooked meal is what keeps you grounded. Prepare by going to the store for all the necessary ingredients and step away from your to-do list each day to relieve the stress.
The main point here is to schedule time for the things that keep you grounded. These are firm appointments with yourself that make you a better, more balanced and productive individual.
Reframe the Situation
When we feel stressed or anxious, these emotions can drain our productivity, self-confidence and overall performance. Tweak the way you look at a stressful situation. Instead of viewing the situation as overwhelming, see the situation as a challenge — a challenge that you can handle. Maybe for you it’s even a growth opportunity mentally or socially. With an open mind, you can see that there is an opportunity to learn.
Focus on the opportunity to grow professionally and work with people with different perspectives. Dwell on these positives, rather than dwelling on the negative, to actually enhance your performance. When you reframe the situation, that stress you feel can turn into drive, motivation and excitement to tackle the challenge that’s in front of you.
It’s impossible to completely remove stress from our lives or to turn off our anxious thoughts. The goal is to step back, focus on what matters and reframe our focus on the result of whatever lies ahead.
Increase your productivity with these tips to stay organized.
Reach Out for Help
The thing about stress is, we all have it! We all start new jobs and we all deal with new coworker relationships. Whatever stressful situation you find yourself in, rely on those around you to help you through it. Discussing ways to overcome a stressful challenge can come to light when talking about the situation with a friend or family member. Whoever you reach out to; a family member, friend, mentor, therapist, neighbor, etc., may have been in similar situations to you. They can offer solutions that helped them find the positive and remain balanced.
Seeking support is the best way to remind yourself that you are not in this alone. Who knows, one day you will probably be able to offer advice to help someone else dealing with a situation similar to what you’re currently going through.
Another way to collect your thoughts is through writing them down on paper. Grab a pen and piece of paper and jot down what’s happening. You may find that in doing this, you’re able to take a step back and see the bigger picture.
Believe it or not, stress can help us cope with various situations. It can help us take action if we frame our mind to focus on the positive or the desired outcome. Use the stress to your advantage to focus and get things done, but remain optimistic by focusing on the bigger picture. What are the positives in the situation?
Also, take time to do the things that help you relax. When you do, you will see that you’re more productive and positive when facing a challenge head-on. Lastly, don’t forget to turn to those around you for help. We’ve all been there and need each other for support through life’s stressful situations.
Check out these tips to remain professional in a modern office environment.
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