8 Tricks to Calm Workplace Chaos

1. Give Yourself Some Credit

Praise yourself at least once a day. Most of us don’t take enough time to praise ourselves for doing things well. So when you’ve completed an interim or long-term goal, tell yourself – out loud – what a good job you’ve done. You’ll get a burst of confidence that will go a long way towards helping you maintain your cool amid the workplace madness.

2. Recite a Poem

Reading a poem out loud twice a day can help relieve some stress. The cadence, words and images will soothe your soul. Not into poetry? If you’re religious, try reading a psalm or other sacred writings. If you love music, listen to a few of your favourite songs.

3. Think of Life Outside of Work

Make an altar or display in your office to remind you of your personal life. Include pictures of your spouse, children and/or a pet, a photograph of yourself doing something fun, plus a memento that reminds you of a special occasion. When you feel yourself getting overwhelmed and stressed out, take 5 minutes and simply stare at the display. Recall the day each picture was taken. Hold your memento and return in your memory to the day you got it. Now you’re ready to return to work.

4. Schedule 10 Minutes of “Worry Time”

Close your office door or go and sit in an empty conference room and focus on what is stressing you out. You can bring your diary or just a sheet of paper. Divide the paper into three columns: My Worry; Why It Worries Me; Worst Thing That Could Happen. Once you confront the worst thing that could possibly happen – and realize that it’s highly unlikely it will ever happen – you can get back to work with your worry load lightened.