After the Crisis, How Do We Move Forward with Our Work Lives?

I've been observing a trend of late — and it is one that many of us may be struggling with. It is the disturbing level of lingering stress caused by the economic downturn, and the extended uncertainty that has traveled with it.

Interestingly, for some of my clients, things are subtly improving business-wise. Yet they seem frozen within past experiences — looking over their shoulder as they try to press on. During interviews, the mood seems akin to post-traumatic stress disorder. But in this case, the trauma is the variety of doubts that infiltrate their work lives. They seem saddled with the memory of what they have been through, and it walks with them side by side, each and every day. Many find it difficult to shake off all that has happened and move forward as who they once were. They hesitate to take risks and make key decisions, and with good reason. Their confidence has suffered.

I deal with work-related behavior — the elements that combine to form jobs and organizations. Yet, this goes beyond job analysis and process improvement, as both physical and emotional distress seems to be more prevalent. The closer an organization's industry is to the "epicenter" of the economic crisis, the more trauma I seem to observe. (See a discussion of financial PTSD here.) There is so much to work through; The pain of job loss. The frustration of evolving roles or dramatically lowered salaries. The continued pressure of meeting the needs of customers, with far less in the way of resources and support. It is as if on one hand we know the storm might be resolving, but we still want to hunker down in a place of safety for just a while longer. The dark clouds are still visible — and the visceral reaction to protect ourselves remains.

What we might do:

• Reflect, then focus forward. Take a moment to acknowledge that you, your team or your organization have weathered – and are still capable of weathering – the storm. Then attempt to rally energy and reconnect in "positive mode". Celebrate your resiliency, and attempt to rekindle hope for the future. Avoid self-blame, as much of what has happened was beyond your control.
• Examine hesitancy. Often this is triggered when we contemplate letting go of the strategies that kept us afloat during trying times. These actions may have been quite effective for the past, and they have become comfortable. However, the same strategies may not enhance our long-term position. For others, the fear that the entire process will repeat in the next chapter of work life brings doubt.
• Process, process, process. Talk with your team about all that has happened and discuss the changes (both good and bad) that have occurred. Build a forum to discuss ideas that may help the group get "back on track". Let them vent and weigh the options — for all that it is worth.
• Mend the psychological contract. Take a moment of pause and reflect on the health of the contract that you have with your employer. (If you manage others, do so with your team individually.) In times of duress, expectations and promises are often breached. (More on this in a later post.)
• Seek help if needed. Ultimately, if you or someone you know, is suffering from debilitating stress, reach out to a trusted friend, physician, social worker or coach. Share your situation and get a proper plan in place to affect concerns.

How are you dealing with what has played out within your work life? Share your story and the strategies that have worked for you.

Dr. Marla Gottschalk is an Industrial/Organizational Psychologist. She also writes The Office Blend.