What is the right mindset to manage stress at work?

The pressure of working conditions, as we have cited in previous articles, represents one of the causes of stress experienced by most people. But the way to deal with this pressure often depends on several parameters: the degree of motivation of each person, the expectations of each person, personal ambitions, personal problems as well as the mentality of each person.

The mental side plays a vital role in overcoming the pressures of working conditions, therefore adopting a positive and proactive mentality is essential for good stress management at work. Here are some key mindsets that can help better manage stress and maintain a healthy balance:

1. Growth Mindset

• Continuous learning: See challenges and mistakes as opportunities for learning and growth. This perspective can reduce stress by reducing the fear of failure.

• Adaptability: Be open to change and ready to adapt to new situations. Mental flexibility allows you to better manage the unexpected.

2. Pragmatism and Realism

• Realistic Expectations: Set realistic expectations for yourself and others. Understanding your limits and accepting that you can't control everything reduces unnecessary pressure.

• Focus on the essentials: Focus on priority and important tasks. Learning to say no to secondary tasks can prevent work overload.

3. Optimism

• Positive thinking: Cultivate a positive attitude by focusing on the positive aspects of your job and celebrating small victories.

• Visualization of success: Imagine positive outcomes and solutions to problems, which can help reduce anxiety and improve motivation.

4. Resilience

• Dealing with failure: Accept that failure is part of the journey and use it as an opportunity to bounce back stronger.

• Perseverance: Maintain consistent effort even in the face of difficulties, keeping in mind that stressful situations are often temporary.

5. Assumption of Responsibility

• Proactivity: Take the initiative to resolve problems instead of ignoring them. A proactive approach allows you to feel more in control and reduce stress.

• Autonomy: Work on your ability to be self-reliant and independent, which increases self-confidence and decreases over-dependence on others.

6. Work/Personal Life Balance

• Delegation: Learn to delegate tasks when possible to avoid overload.

• Rest time: Allow yourself time to relax and recharge your batteries outside of work. Taking regular breaks is crucial for effective stress management.

7. Self-awareness

• Identifying sources of stress: Be aware of the factors that trigger your stress and work on strategies to manage them.

• Emotions and reactions: Understand and manage your emotions. Self-control allows you to react more calmly and rationally to stress.

8. Collaboration Mentality

• Team Spirit: Foster a culture of support and collaboration with your colleagues. Working together to solve problems can reduce individual stress.

• Open communication: Express your concerns and needs clearly and respectfully. Good communication helps prevent misunderstandings and reduce stress.

9. Kindness towards oneself (Self-compassion)

• Self-compassion: Be kind to yourself. Acknowledge your efforts and be forgiving of your mistakes.

• Time for yourself: Practice self-care activities, such as meditation, yoga, or any other activity that helps you relax and feel good.

10. Prevention and Preparedness

• Proactive preparation: Prepare for tasks and projects in advance. Good organization and planning can reduce stress by avoiding last-minute surprises.

• Training and skills: Improve your skills and knowledge to feel more confident and competent in your job.

Adopting these mindsets can go a long way toward effective stress management at work. By cultivating a proactive, positive and balanced approach, you can not only reduce your stress, but also improve your job satisfaction and performance.