We often hear about having a resilient mindset when overcoming challenges in our everyday lives, so how does it translate into the workplace?
Having a resilient mindset at work can significantly improve our performance, confidence and ability to adapt to change. Here are some tips on building a resilient mindset that might be useful if you are just starting a new job or aiming to improve your performance in a current role.
This is also available as a downloadable pdf in our Resources section.
Controlling your stress levels
Are there any remedies that you can turn to during times of stress? Have an emergency stress reduction plan in mind. Perhaps if you have an important deadline to meet, scheduling in a short period of time to run over your ideas with colleagues can help to gain clarity and direction.
Key takeaway: Have three stress relief techniques in mind to incorporate into your work day. Perhaps it is taking five minutes to meditate, going for a walk on your lunch break, and discussing any work-related concerns with a supportive colleague.
Be prepared
Nothing triggers our stress levels more than feeling unprepared. The best way to being prepared is to do your research. Keep a note on everything you discover.
Moreover, writing a to-do-list for every project is a great way to keep you accountable and to track your progress. This is especially useful when you are at the final review stage of a project. By jotting down further edits or areas that need more work, allows you to know exactly what to focus on when you revisit the task.
Key takeaway: Do thorough research. Even if it doesn’t apply to a current task, save it on file for an upcoming project.
Create a prioritised daily to-do-list and try to set out realistic time management goals to complete each task. Also, write down and allow time for on the go tasks that have to be completed with more urgency.
Have an adaptable and flexible approach
Sometimes it takes time to adjust to a new role, workload, or team. New roles mean learning new systems, protocols, and it may take time for you to have the confidence to voice your opinions. Having a flexible attitude ensures we can adapt to a dynamic team of people, as well as learn new skills and work towards common goals together.
Be receptive to other opinions and maintain calm, friendly communication. Schedule time for collaborative team dialogue.
Key takeaway: Be a team player. There is always a solution that can be reached when all parties are determined to work together. Being able to listen carefully and respond with humility allows for a more positive work culture.
Handling criticism
Receiving unfavourable criticism can stir negative emotions. Although its hard to grapple with, we have to remember not to take it personally. We can all accept constructive criticism, if we know what to do with it and how to learn from it. It’s about putting things into perspective and having a positive attitude.
Treat mistakes as a chance to learn and improve. Practice, practice, practice. Ask questions in a calm manner if you do not understand why the criticism was given.
Key takeaway: Practice positive self-talk. Don’t allow negative emotions to take over for longer than necessary. Instead of focusing on criticism, jot down what was learnt and tips on how to do things differently next time.
Building resilience is a learned skill. Practicing good habits, training ourselves to be organised, being adaptable and having a positive approach, can all improve our resilience and ultimately our performance. Just like growing a muscle, “a muscle of resilience” involves building on our ability to deal with unfavourable or stressful situations.