Inspiring Workplaces: How Stress Aware Are You?

Published: Wed, 11/04/20

Humor at Work

ISSUE 847- Nov. 4, 2020


		How Stress Aware Are You?

	Today, Wednesday November 4 is International Stress Awareness Day, which begs an obvious question: "Who keeps leaving the toilet seat up!!?" OK, maybe that's just a common stress-related question in my household. There are, however, some great questions to ponder when it comes to managing bad hair days in your workplace, such as: How aware are you of your stress triggers? The more aware you are as to what sets you off, the better you'll be able to either prevent a stressful event from happening in the first place, develop a creative strategy for coping with it, or at least brace yourself when you know that something is going to be a challenge. This may sound simple, but it's amazing how many people get stuck in a Groundhog Day loop of regular stress without ever taking any steps to change the circumstances or their mindset. How aware are you of the early warning signs that you might lob a stapler at a colleague's head? Being aware that you are stressed out after lobbing said stapler is a tad too late, especially for your co-worker. If you can learn to read the early warning signs, you can take a break before you break. How aware are you of what works best when it comes to managing your stress? Not all stress management techniques are created equal, and nor do they work equally well for everyone. If meditation isn't your bag, maybe kickboxing is (as long as it's not with the photocopier. Or an unsuspecting colleague). Try different techniques until you land on the best approach for you. How aware are you of what triggers your colleagues and customers? Being a great leader and teammate means understanding what might trigger the people you work with (such as stapler-tossing), and then you know, NOT doing those things! This is a great discussion worth having with your entire team.

		Mike's Fun at Work Tip

For those of you working in a hybrid situation, assign a "roving reporter" who can video interview coworkers (from a safe distance) and provide some color commentary from the office as a fun way to keep employees who are still working remotely in the loop. They don't have to be fancy! Short, authentic, fun, home movie style videos from the front lines could go a long ways towards helping people feel more connected at work.
		Quote of the Week

“People who use humor, particularly in stressful positions, are viewed as being on top of things and being in charge and in control, whether they are in factor not.” Martha Craumer
		It's a Wacky World

An alert reader (thank you Gail!) sent in this odd sign she spotted in a store: "CAT HOUSES FOR SALE. CATS NOT INCLUDED."

Every Other Wednesdays
The Culture Club is back TODAY, Wednesday, November 4, at 1:00 pm EST, where the gang will be talking about what it takes to create a high-performing culture. To register for this fun, free and informative discussion, pop on over to Every Other Wednesday.

Less Stress, More Success
25 Ways to Lower Your Stress at Work

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