Recent world events have driven the economy into a tailspin, with gas and heating oil prices increasing daily. The scenes we have witnessed in the media from across the globe reach to the depth of our souls and the desperation can be overwhelming. As humans, we are connected and the stress this causes can take its toll. Feelings of uncertainty can cause tremendous anxiety that sometimes makes it difficult to get through the day.
Although in a perfect world, we would leave our personal lives at the door when we come to the office, but the world isn’t perfect. First, we must acknowledge that there is stress and our team may be filled with emotion, impacting their productivity. We would love for our team to be at the top of their game every single day, but in reality, times are hard.
The best thing we can do is provide our team tools and the space to let off a little steam and feel positive about their work. As a leader, you have control over how you present yourself in the workplace, so why not put it to good use? Here are 3 tips to help boost workplace productivity when there’s a lot of stress in the world:
Tip Number One: Encouragement
Sincere encouragement can boost morale and motivation, especially when they least expect it!
Tip Number Two: Coordinate office activities
Taking your team’s mind off the world and their work, even for fifteen minutes can give their brains a small break, enough to unwind and destress.
Tip Number Three: Encourage healthy behaviors
Making sure your team gets regular breaks, takes their time off, drinks enough water, and is eating healthy can positively impact their workday.
It is also important to give yourself a break from the tension too. First of all, it is might be best to leave all conversation about the conflict out of the work environment, because there is enough stress at work already. It takes focus away from your job and you can watch the news later.
Events of the world are important to keep up with, but when it becomes overwhelming, it’s also important to take a break so that you have the energy to continue forward. Have some tea and listen to music. Take a walk. Read a book or listen to some music.