Keeping Cool

This month it’s all about giving positive feedback that helps workers correct shortcomings. One of these ways is making sure that you keep your emotions under control. You do not want to comment on someone else’s actions when you are angry or upset. It is hard being a leader and indulgent as well at times. When you speak when you are upset you are likely to say something you do not really mean or to react poorly to something that is said to you. So we are going to focus on handling negative emotions in the workplace. The most common negative emotions experienced in the workplace are as follows: Frustration/irritation, worry/nervousness, anger/aggravation, dislike and disappointment/unhappiness. Frustration usually occurs when you feel held or confined, or unable to move forward in some way. It could be caused by a co- worker blocking projects, a boss who is too disorganized to get to your meeting on time, or simply being on hold on the phone for a long time. Things to help stop and evaluate; find something positive about the situation; remember the last time you got frustrated and what helped you to get through it. With all the fear and anxiety that comes with increasing numbers of layoffs, it’s no wonder that many people worry about their jobs. But this worry can easily get out of control, if you allow it. Try starting a worry log, or deep breathing. Dealing with anger can be a bit difficult. If you have trouble managing your temper at work, then learning to control it is one of the best things you can do if you want to keep your job. If you start to get angry stop what you are doing and practice the deep breathing exercises I mentioned earlier. Make sure you watch for early signs of anger as well; try to picture yourself when you get angry. Do you like how you look or come across? When dealing with dislike just make sure you are respectful yet assertive when mistreated; you won’t tolerate being misdealt with, and politely walk away from the situation. Disappointment and unhappiness can happen a lot in the work place. Just keep in mind that you won’t always get your way. So check your mindset, adjust your goals, record your thoughts, smile and move on.