Stress in the Workplace
Positive stress, that is stress that is manageable within our own threshold, creates an excitement within us, giving us a ‘buzz’ in our working day. We feel more energetic, more dynamic. In this way, we cope better, giving us ‘an edge’ in meetings and presentations, we feel focussed and alert, with sharpness and clarity of mind.
However, negative stress occurs when we feel overloaded, when there is a worry that we may be seen to not measure up to the job. This can easily get on top of us and this makes the very thing we fear more likely to happen. Because of this worry we might find that our concentration, judgement, confidence, sleep and clarity of thought are affected. This means that our performance at work is further compromised.
In this way, we enter into a self-deprecating downward spiral of stress, from which there may seem no escape. Feelings of self-doubt, rejection, resentment and dejection exacerbate the stress response within us and we become intoxicated with the stress chemicals of adrenalin and cortisol.
We may become anxious before giving a presentation, chairing or participating in meetings, or when making or returning telephone calls to colleagues. This anxiety if ignored and unchecked could develop into social anxiety or create a phobic reaction.
Understanding and taking control of your stress in the workplace allows you to free yourself from self-limiting beliefs and thought process which get in the way of your personal and professional success. Understanding yourself and how you cope with stress leads to a self-awareness that will impact on how you work and how you experience your work.
Embracing a process to successfully manage your stress will help you to turn difficulties into opportunities, to find confidence in yourself and in your abilities, to think smarter and work smarter. In this way, you will learn to overcome procrastination, relate better to your colleagues, be more open to opportunity and stay flexible and creative.
My integrative approach provides you an opportunity to realise your potential, to be the person – the employee, the boss, the entrepreneur… that you were always meant to be.
Testimonials for Stress in the Workplace
“At times it was challenging re-visiting negative emotions and experiences from the past but at no stage did I feel pressured. The sessions certainly helped. Initially they reduced my general state of anxiety that had persisted for many years. Later they dealt with more deep rooted problems that had held me back. The concept of my future self has been most beneficial. My focus at work has been much better and I’ve received positive feedback.”
David, 25 – Consultant
“Lisa was referred to me by my friend and also by my GP. Lisa was described as incredibly supportive but also straightforward and accessible. I have found her to be all of those things. Lisa listened without judgement and was hugely empathetic. I left feeling confident that, whilst it might be quite a journey ahead of me, that I could ‘crack’ this problem. Lisa provides a supportive, trusting environment; one which is calm and nurturing. She offers forthright help with difficult problems. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend her to others.”
Louise, 41 – Business Owner
“During my initial consultation, I immediately felt very comfortable in Lisa’s company. I always felt very relaxed and that I was in a ‘safe place’ where I was able to discuss things openly and freely.” Vicky, 40 – Lettings Manager
