Keeping cool under pressure is a valuable skill to develop – not only in the workplace or within eLearning, but for everyday life too. Like any skill, this will take practice and time to master. Success doesn’t come over night and will require dedication, mindfulness, and well-thought-out execution in order to maintain a healthy mind.
A key factor to consider is to never rush things. Always set your own realistic deadlines throughout the day. Bigger tasks can be condensed into smaller bite sized chunks and further prioritised based on their importance, this will make tasks appear more achievable and less overwhelming.
By setting up a daily task list before your first cup of coffee in morning, you will be free up valuable time for yourself and for your work.
Stressful situations are a natural part of work and life, especially with load shedding schedules getting longer and longer, and inflation on the rise. The only way to stay ahead of the game is to maintain a clear and focused mind. Be patient with yourself and keep working at it, soon you will be able to keep cool even in the most overwhelming situations.
There are several strategies you can use to help manage your stress and maintain your focus in the workplace. Remember, everyone experiences stress and pressure at work, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed from time to time. You are not alone.
Here are some helpful tips that may help you manage stress:
- Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness involves paying attention to the present moment and accepting it without judgment. You can practice mindfulness by taking a few deep breaths, focusing on the physical sensations in your body, and letting go of any distracting thoughts or emotions.
- Take breaks: Taking regular breaks throughout the day can help you recharge and reduce stress. Even a short walk or a few minutes of stretching can make a big difference in how you feel.
- Use positive self-talk: Instead of focusing on negative thoughts or worries, try to use positive self-talk to stay motivated and focused. For example, you might tell yourself, “I can handle this”, or “I’ve done this before, and I can do it again.”
- Seek support: If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t be afraid to reach out for help. Talk to a trusted colleague or manager. Remember, “Asking for help is never a sign of weakness. It’s one of the bravest things you can do…”
- Take a deep breath: Doing this can help you calm down and regain focus.
- Stay organised:
- Being organised and having a plan can help reduce stress and give you a sense of control.
- Learn from mistakes: When things don’t go as planned, try to see it as an opportunity to learn and improve.
- Instead of being highly critical of yourself, focus on what you can do differently next time.
- Stay positive: A positive attitude can go a long way in helping you stay cool under pressure. Focus on the things that are going well and try to find solutions to the things that aren’t.
Remember, managing stress and staying focused under pressure takes practice. By incorporating these strategies into your daily working routine, you can build your resilience and improve your ability to handle challenging situations at work.
