Anxiety in Consulting: Practical Strategies for a Smoother Journey

While revisiting the book "Getting Things Done" by David Allen, my eyes stopped at the sentence, "Anxiety is caused by a?lack of control, organization, preparation, and action.” ― David Kekich. My mind went back in time and immediately connected with this feeling I had often experienced as a consultant.?

Anxiety is a silent feeling and can be a common and crippling companion. The pressure to deliver results, meet deadlines, and manage complex projects can often trigger feelings of worry, fear, and overwhelm. However, by understanding the root causes of anxiety and implementing some strategies, you can take control of this emotion.

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First of all, what is anxiety?

Anxiety stems from a perceived lack of control. When we feel like we don't have a handle on situations, our minds tend to race with worst-case scenarios, leading to stress, panic, and even physical symptoms.

Consulting projects, by their very nature, can be breeding grounds for anxiety. The uncertainty of outcomes, the ever-changing demands of clients, and the constant pressure to perform can all contribute to feelings of helplessness and anxiety. Also, if the consultant has to deal with the financial context (for example, if he works as an independent consultant), the levels of anxiety can double and triple.

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Combating Anxiety in Consulting Projects

I believe anxiety doesn't have to control you. If you get conscious of this emotion, you can prevent and control it before it becomes a monster! Here are some strategies to take in consideration in your consulting projects:?

• Preparation and Organization: Take the time to thoroughly understand project requirements, organize your tasks effectively, and create realistic timelines. This proactive approach will help you feel more in control and reduce anxiety. Make sure to use project management tools to break down the project into smaller tasks with deadlines.
• Set Clear and Realistic Expectations: Since the beginning, ensure both you and your client have a clear understanding of the project's scope, timeline, and deliverables. This helps prevent misunderstandings and reduces anxiety. If your client shares that he would like to have or to do something,?clarify the impact on the timeline and budget immediately. Say no if you have to. It's okay to decline additional work if you're feeling overwhelmed.
• Effective Communication: Open and transparent communication with clients and team members is crucial for managing expectations and avoiding surprises. Regularly update stakeholders on project progress, address concerns promptly, and don't hesitate to ask for help when needed. For example, have a monthly call to review the project's status and discuss any concerns.
• Be Honest and Transparent: If you encounter any issues or delays, communicate them to your client as soon as possible. Honesty helps manage expectations and prevents anxiety from escalating. For example, if a key team member is sick and this will delay a deliverable, let the client know and provide a revised timeline

• Collaborative Problem-Solving: Involve your client in the problem-solving process. Collaborative efforts can lead to better solutions and foster a sense of partnership.
• Set Boundaries: Clearly define your availability and set boundaries. This helps prevent burnout and keeps anxiety at bay. If your client calls you late at night, kindly remind them of your working hours and suggest discussing the matter the next day.
• Document Everything: Keep detailed records of meetings, decisions, and changes to the project. This documentation can serve as a reference point and reduce anxiety by providing a clear trail of communication and actions. After every meeting, send a summary email outlining the key points discussed, decisions made, and next steps.
• Say no: It's okay to decline additional work if you're feeling overwhelmed.
• Seek Help: If anxiety is significantly impacting your project, consider seeking help from your manager, a consultant friend, an expert, or someone who can help you think and unblock your feelings and emotions. If you’re unsure how to handle a difficult client, ask an experienced consultant for tips on managing client relationships effectively.

By using these strategies, you can turn anxiety from a problem into a helpful tool, leading to a more confident, productive, and successful consulting projects.

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