Thriving Under Pressure: Strategies for Stress Management and Resilience

In today’s fast-paced world, resilience is crucial for high performance. Whether you’re a leader or an individual contributor, understanding your stress response is the first step. We sat down with Mohammad Ismail , our Product Manager for the Buildings segment to glean insights on how he navigates pressure and maintains resilience.

Understanding and Navigating Stress

Mohammad remarks “Stress is inevitable, especially in a dynamic field like product management. In our line of work, we often face high workloads, tight deadlines with limited resources, and constantly changing expectations," he explains. "It can be overwhelming at times, but I’ve learned to embrace it as a catalyst for growth.”

To combat stress, Mohammad employs a range of strategies both at work and in his personal life. At work, he emphasizes the importance of prioritization, breaking down large projects into manageable steps, delegating tasks when necessary, and setting realistic expectations through open communication with managers and colleagues. "When I feel stressed, I make a list of all my tasks and prioritize the urgent and important ones. It helps me regain a sense of control," Mohammad shares.

He adds, “Resilience is like a muscle, it strengthens with practice. I focus on a few practices to help build resilience, adaptive thinking where I try and remain flexible to adapt to when plans change. This flexibility prevents burnout. I have also learnt to develop a support network of colleagues and mentors that I use as a sound board and for feedback to leverage their wisdom and camaraderie.”

Outside of work, Mohammad destresses by working out and playing football. "Exercise is my go-to stress reliever. It helps me clear my mind and release any pent-up tension," he says. Additionally, he maintains a healthy work-life balance by engaging in hobbies and connecting with loved ones. "Taking time for myself and my family is crucial for recharging and maintaining a positive mindset," Mohammad adds.

Building Resilient Workforce through Organizational Support and Initiatives

While individual stress management strategies are crucial, organizations also play a vital role in supporting employee well-being and fostering a culture of resilience. A stress resilient team is more productive, engaged, and innovative. Mohammad believes that organizations can take the following steps to create a more supportive and mentally healthy work environment:

1. Cultivate a culture of open communication, where employees feel safe expressing their concerns and seeking help when needed, without fear of repercussions.
2. Provide access to resources such as employee assistance programs, counselling services, and stress management workshops to equip employees with effective coping strategies.
3. Encourage regular breaks, reasonable working hours, and the use of vacation time to prevent burnout and promote work-life balance.
4. Offer flexible work arrangements, such as remote or hybrid options, to accommodate diverse needs and reduce commute-related stress.
5. Recognize and reward success, acknowledging employees' accomplishments and efforts, which can boost motivation, job satisfaction, and a sense of appreciation.
6. Lead by example, with managers and leaders prioritizing their own self-care and modelling healthy work habits.
7. Focus on the quality of work and desired results rather than solely on timing and quantity. This approach can help alleviate unnecessary pressure and promote a healthier work-life balance without compromising on outcomes.

In the hustle of work and life, pressure is inevitable. However, Mohammad believes that by equipping teams with these stress management and resilience building strategies, we invest not only in their well-being but also in the organization’s success. “By prioritizing self-care, well-being, and adopting a growth mindset, we can not only survive but thrive, navigating life’s challenges with greater confidence and strength.”