Employees with Emotions

Maybe you’re one of those people that never encounter stress, anger or anxiousness.

If so, this article isn’t for you.

The truth of the matter is that everyone experiences life events that affect their emotions. Another truth: these emotions will affect you while at work. Lover’s quarrels, financial challenges and the death of a loved one are just a few things that can thwart your attempts to be your usual self at work.

Knowing that life’s curve balls are inevitable, what can you do to keep them from interfering with your performance at work?

1. Acceptance: Admit to yourself that you are having a difficult time. Life happens. Pride can allow you to convince yourself and others that you are fine when you really aren’t.

2. Talk to someone: By someone, I mean a coworker. Chances are, people have noticed that something is different about you lately. Having a coworker that you trust may relieve some of the pressure of holding things in. It also may provide you with a support system that can help you during your difficult days. It’s likely that you spend just as much time at work as at home, so why not find a confidant?

3. New Habits: Replace old triggers with new habits. Are you used to calling your ex on your lunch break? Take a short walk instead.

4. Integrity Check: Your mind will drift and focus on your issues rather than the task at hand. Check behind your work to make sure that information is accurate and error free. You’re already going through a tough time; don’t let negative performance make things worse for you.

5. Attention Free Zone: Don’t draw attention to yourself. If you don’t have a private office with a door, go to a private place to answer calls that are related to the issue. An outburst of emotions may be interpreted as you being unstable and unable to control yourself under certain circumstances.

6. Don’t Project: When things are going awry, people have the unconscious tendency to be short and project internal feelings onto others. Take moments throughout your day do keep yourself in line before dealing with a situation that my set you off.

7. Steal Away: Sometimes, you just can’t manage. Go to a place where you know that you won’t be interrupted and release. Then, reapply your mascara and get back to work.

8. Know Your Limit: Even with these tips, you may still need to take some time away from work to sort out your issues. If you don’t take care of yourself mentally, everything around you will be affected. Understand your limit and when you reach it, stop and regroup.

As a woman, you were created as an emotional creature. However, you still have the responsibility and the power to not let these emotions to control your life. There are many industries that are still male dominated and not traditionally deemed for women. This is all the more reason to show yourself as strong and capable when handling tough life issues in the workplace. Remember that you are in control of your emotions and there is nothing that you cannot triumph over!