Lately, I’ve heard about co-workers having a shouting match filled with accusations and four-letter language because frustrations had boiled over, colleagues ignoring each other because they don’t like how something was handled, work piled on by managers who are unaware of the impact, and frustrations with unreasonable expectations when days are filled with back-to-back, on-screen meetings, and more.
We all deal with stress in different ways. What do you do when you’re feeling overwhelmed or when frustration with something or someone has reached your limit?
I take a walk, when I can. Or, I’ll shift gears and focus on something I can work on and see a result. Walking has always been my therapy. It helps me think things through, or not think about the problem and allow my thoughts to wander in whatever direction they want. A leader I know uses walking his dog as his breaks from dealing with people and logistics issues. It helps him separate and think about things from different angles. Another listens to music. One cooks her way through what she’s working on. Her family and friends benefit.
A friend was feeling down, deeply frustrated with some of the major players in her life. She had a lot on her plate and the tension was eating her up inside. She got in her car, grabbed a towel from the back seat, made sure her windows were closed, put the towel up to her face and screamed into it. As loud and as long as she could. The release of pent-up emotions was freeing. She felt relieved when she finished. Then she was able to move forward with what had to get done.
What’s your outlet? What could do that would help you in the short and long term?
