4 simple steps for dealing with work frustrations
Your coworker is smacking their gum. Your boss just piled more work on your plate. Your computer just crashed … again. As the saying goes, “When it rains, it pours.” None of us are immune to the work challenges that can so easily frustrate us. Below are four easy steps you can take to surpass those work frustrations and improve your overall outlook.
- Point out the problem: What is the exact source of your irritation? Is it something you can immediately alter or is it a situation you must accept and adapt to? The first step to overcoming the aggravation is pinpointing its precise source. After examining the root of the problem, decipher whether you can change things by directly confronting the problem (i.e., politely asking your coworkers to stop the gum smacking). Or, if you must accept the situation (i.e., if you’re given more work) prioritize and plan for how you can accomplish your goals without getting overwhelmed.
- Keep your head up: You are the only person who can truly control how you deal with work challenges. If you choose to stay positive and look for the silver lining as often as you can, your outlook will almost instantly improve. For example, if your coworker fails to hold up their end of the bargain and you’re forced to pick up the slack, look at it as a learning experience and a chance to show others your dedication to the company.
- Recall similar experiences: What will help to get you through your tough time is remembering it’s not the first time you’ll be frustrated, and it won’t be the last. Think about it: how many times has your computer frozen up or crashed unexpectedly? Even when you get it working and get passed the hiccup, unfortunately down the road it’ll probably happen again. How much good does getting frustrated really help the situation? Learning from the past and adjusting for the future will help you to feel less stressed the next time you’re confronted with something similar.
- Get help: If you’re having trouble keeping your frustrations in check, it may be time to sit down and talk it out with someone you can trust. Don’t let your temper or your weariness cloud your judgment. Instead, take a breath and turn to someone for help. Express to them what’s troubling you and ask for their feedback on ways you can get through it. Feeling less than chipper is not something to be ashamed of and seeking assistance shows strength and the desire to make personal and professional improvements.
