The Myth of thriving under Pressure: Why it is time to re-evaluate our work culture.

Dear Y.O.U,

I trust that you are keeping well, amidst the economy and everything happening around you. In our previous edition of F.I.T Letters, we delved into the world of rest, debunking myths and uncovering its power. We explored the different types of rest – physical, mental, emotional, and social – and how they contribute to overall well-being. We also emphasized the importance of tailoring your rest plan to your unique needs and lifestyle.

Today, let’s take it a step further,? challenging the notion that thriving under pressure is a badge of honour.? It is time to address the elephant in the room: the relentless demand to "thrive under pressure. But let’s call a spade a spade: this is a myth!

For too long, we have?been conditioned to believe that constant busyness and stress are the price we pay for success. We have normalized long hours, skipped breaks, skipped meals, lack of sleep, and even sacrificed our well-being in the name of productivity. But the truth is, this relentless pursuit of achievement often leads to burnout, decreased creativity, and a decline in overall well-being.

The ability to work under pressure has traditionally been a highly valued skill in the job market. Many organizations have emphasized this trait because it indicates that employees can handle stressful situations, meet tight deadlines, and maintain productivity despite challenges. Highlighting this skill on a CV or resume has been seen as a sign of resilience, adaptability, and reliability, which are crucial in dynamic and demanding work environments.?

However, with increasing awareness of mental health and well-being, there is a growing focus on sustainable work practices and support systems to manage pressure effectively rather than glorifying constant high-stress conditions.

The Hidden Costs of Pressure

When we constantly operate in high-pressure environments, our bodies and minds pay the price. The silent killer: STRESS, shows up and this can manifest in various ways, including :

1. Mental Health Issues: Chronic stress is a well-documented contributor to mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression. Constantly working under pressure can lead to burnout, emotional exhaustion, and decreased job satisfaction. According to the American Psychological Association, work-related stress is a major source of mental health problems, significantly affecting overall well-being.

Mental health challenges: anxiety, depression, burnout

2. Physical Health Risks: The physical toll of sustained stress includes a higher risk of cardiovascular diseases, weakened immune system, and other stress-related conditions. The body's "fight or flight" response, triggered by stress, is not meant to be a permanent state. Prolonged exposure can lead to serious health complications.

Physical symptoms: headaches, digestive issues, weakened immune system

3. Reduced Productivity and Creativity: While short bursts of pressure might boost performance temporarily, long-term stress impairs cognitive functions, reduces creativity, and hampers problem-solving abilities. Employees who are constantly stressed are less likely to innovate and more prone to making mistakes.

4. Negative Workplace Culture: Endorsing a high-pressure work environment often leads to a toxic culture where employees feel undervalued and overworked. This can result in high?turnover rates, decreased morale, and a lack of team cohesion.

Creating a Healthier Work Environment

To foster a healthier and more productive work environment, organizations need to shift their focus from celebrating high-pressure work to supporting employee well-being.

Here are some strategies:

1. Incorporate wellness practices into company culture: Encourage employees to take breaks, use their vacation time, and disconnect after work hours. Implement flexible working arrangements where possible to help employees manage their personal and professional lives effectively.

2. Offer Mental Health Support: Provide access to mental health resources, such as counselling services and stress management workshops. Create an open and supportive environment where employees feel comfortable discussing their mental health without fear of stigma.

3. Set Realistic Expectations: Avoid setting unattainable deadlines and workloads. Ensure that performance targets are realistic and achievable without necessitating constant high-pressure work.

4. Encourage Regular Feedback: Maintain open lines of communication where employees can provide feedback about their workload and stress levels. Use this feedback to make necessary adjustments and show that the organization values employee well-being.

5. Foster a Positive Culture: Recognize and reward not just the outcomes but also the effort and processes that contribute to success. Celebrate teamwork, collaboration, and innovation rather than just the ability to handle stress.

While the ability to work under pressure can be useful in certain situations, it should not be a perpetual expectation. The costs of constant high-pressure work environments far outweigh the benefits, impacting both individual health and organizational success. By shifting our focus to creating supportive, balanced, and healthy work environments, we can enhance productivity, foster creativity, and ensure the long-term well-being of employees.

It's time to redefine what it means to be a successful and valuable employee. Let's celebrate sustainable productivity, resilience, and well-being over the outdated notion of thriving under pressure.

If you found this article insightful, please share your thoughts in the comments or reach out and let's discuss building healthier workplaces.

Stay F.I.T,

Esta.