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I’m Stressed Too– Self Care During Times of
High Organizational Stress
Elaine Beyer
Employees are upset and angry, their financial plans upturned and their daily livelihood threatened. Levels of fear and anger are rising. Those who work in Human Resources may take on additional stress responding to the needs of employees.
At a basic level of “human” resources, exercising influence is one way to avoid feeling helpless and less victimized by circumstances. Walking around and greeting others is a civil and positive gesture of community. Everyone is quick to read into a scowl or lack of acknowledgement, so even a smile or a nod go a long way on days when we’re not up to conversing. Rather than becoming more rigid, speak to supervisors about allowing more flexibility – in dress, celebrations, time away.
Communicate often, or encourage your managers to communicate, even if they don’t have all the answers. It’s better for employees to hear what you don’t know rather than having them invent and pass on incorrect information. Ask what rumors employees have heard and do your best to dispel them. Negative stories, heated political discussions, or even casual conversations about an erratic market, for example, can trigger further distress when we are already feeling vulnerable. When you get caught in a disaster conversation, suggest a move to a conference room or change the subject.
Build overall resilience through education. Your employee assistance, health care, or even financial service providers may already be presenting sessions on self care. Make sure employees are aware of additional sessions to minimize the effects of stress in addition to any flu shot or wellness programs available.
Take care of yourself. If you find yourself biting back an outburst, this is a warning sign that you are at risk, not only of losing respect and credibility organizationally, but also that your own reserves are depleted. Mental and physical breaks throughout the day, even if it’s only for a few minutes, help relieve accumulated stress. Build resilience by adding a skill, such as meditation or a new form of exercise, to your current stress reduction techniques.
Finally, listen more, with greater patience, and respond thoughtfully. These are simple acts of compassion – and leadership. Trying times means everyone needs to be more of aware of practicing generosity of spirit and kindness – with others and with themselves.
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