Frustrated efforts
A FEW strands of hair flying in the air, sweat glistening on the forehead and upper lip, sudden yells directed at the walls ... No these are not scenes from a third-rate, horror movie, it is in fact a common way of venting one's frustration and annoyance. Who doesn't get frustrated? And when frustration levels are high at the workplace one pays with higher stress, missed deadlines and increased turnover.
According to an American management study there are 5 likely situations that give rise to maximum frustration at workplace. They are:
Having to do more with less. More tasks and responsibilities in the shortest possible time.
People devoting more time to unnecessary meetings and correspondence
Incompetent peers/ colleagues
Poor communication from management
Inadequate appreciation or acknowledgement of efforts
Who wouldn't want to learn the skills of coping with workplace frustration, taking control of those little things that frustrate us on a daily basis? Very often the cause of frustration are the people with whom you work. To reduce the feelings of frustration and convert it to work satisfaction one needs to learn the art of `self management'. This will also help you in forming successful workplace relationships.
Here's what you can do to cut down on workplace frustration.
Do not take the responsibility of other people's feelings, thoughts or actions. But make sure that you take yours seriously enough.
There's no shame in seeking other `stronger' person's help and support.
Do not make decisions when you are feeling upset or angry.
Seek out solutions to problems rather than looking at people to blame.
Do not try to influence or control others. This can often be a root cause for many frustrating moments.
Be open to change, to newer options and flexibility.
Do not dwell on possibilities and assumptions. Focus on the facts and realities.
Be positive and stay optimistic. Negativity takes years off your life.
When all else fails, take a break from the problem. Chances are, if you have been going around in circles for a while, you are not at your best. In addition, it is hard to let go of old, set ideas and start thinking afresh.
Do something else for a while and come back to the problem later. You will get a different perspective.
If you have put sufficient effort into the problem before leaving it, you may find that your subconscious will continue working on the problem while you are away. We all go through struggles in life and at work.
But unhealthy coping mechanisms can make things worse. By avoiding painful or stressful situations we only make matters worse.
And when tolerance levels dip we grow frustrated and consequently give in to self-pity. Don't fight what is; try and accept it.
PADMA
padma.hyd@cnkonline.com
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