3 Positive, Practical Steps To Manage A Frustrating Work Environment.

Are workplace interactions leaving you drained and frustrated?

Do you inwardly groan when a particular meeting appears on your calendar, or the same name pops up on Slack... again?

It's a common challenge. We can't avoid every unpleasant interaction, and as leaders, we don't want to. But if we're not careful, irritations can drag us down.

In this edition of The Expat Leader's Newsletter, I'm sharing three steps along with practical strategies that will help you rebalance, feel happier, and focus on fulfilling your and your team's potential, rather than allowing your precious time and energy to be wasted on negativity.

Step 1. Disconnect:

Take a moment to assess the people or topics that are causing you stress or annoyance at work. Just like with social media, you have the power to “unfollow” or disengage from negative influences.

So much of corporate life is taken up with unproductive conversations. Politely disengage and focus your energies in a more positive direction.

Actions:

1. Set boundaries: Set clear boundaries for yourself. Think about the types of conversations or interactions that are in line with your values and goals. Decide what you will engage in and politely excuse yourself from discussions that veer into negative territory or gossip.

2. Create a positive filter: We're deeply influenced by (and can start to mimic) the people we interact with. Seek out and engage with conversations, projects, and colleagues that uplift and inspire you. Surround yourself with the best.

Step 2. Engage Positively:

As an Energy Leadership coach and expert, I know you show up as a mixture of the thoughts, feelings, assumptions, and decisions you've made. You may not be conscious of it, but that's the energy you lead with, and other people feel it too.

That's why it's vital you use your interactions with colleagues as an opportunity to foster positive connections. Don't just treat others the way they'd want to be treated. Creates the energy you all want to experience in the way you show up.

Actions:

1. Practice active listening: This is a skill you can learn. Make a conscious effort to listen attentively and seek meaning beyond the surface. The best leaders are highly influential, in part because of their ability to listen attentively and understand deeply. Show genuine interest in your people's ideas, concerns, and perspectives, and validate their contributions to the conversation.

2. Offer support and encouragement: Be a source of positivity and encouragement for your colleagues by offering words of praise and appreciation. Small things, such as a simple "Thank You" can have a huge impact. Take the time to notice and acknowledge.

Step 3. Reconnect:

Take the time to reconnect with colleagues you haven’t interacted with recently. Reach out with a friendly comment or invite them to join you for a coffee break or lunch. By actively engaging with your network, you strengthen your professional relationships and positively contribute to a more vibrant and supportive workplace culture.

Practical Steps:

1. Schedule regular check-ins: Make it a habit to schedule regular check-in meetings or virtual coffee chats with colleagues you haven’t connected with in a while. Use this time to catch up on each other’s projects, share updates, and offer support.

2. Foster a sense of belonging: Be clear on your team's mission and use it as an opportunity for team bonding and growth. Most people want to feel they are contributing to something bigger than themselves. If it's not clear what you're all working towards (beyond the numbers) then define it together and link it to your values.

If this is challenging, bring in an external pair of eyes to help you facilitate this, such as am executive coach, consultant or trainer.

Encouraging open communication and collaboration based on shared values will strengthen your bonds and foster a sense of belonging, especially when things get difficult.

As leaders, we sometimes focus on the bigger issues and forget the impact of smaller everyday actions.

Remember, the tone and atmosphere of your environment are directly influenced by your actions and the way you show up.

By taking proactive steps to cultivate positivity and connection, you take back some control and create a happier, more satisfying workplace for yourself and others.

What would you add to this list to ensure you have a productive and enjoyable week ahead?

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