Life’s challenge is to maintain who we are while dealing with negative emotions, challenging situations, and speed bumps. Work is no exception. How do we stay focused on our passions, goals, and spirit when we might be surrounded by difficulty? Dismissive bosses and unsupportive colleagues may have been given little respect and might actually need a helping hand themselves. You never know what they are going through.
Focus on what you can control. We have great power over how we manage our day, including what actions we take, what words we use, and how we experience the people around us. Since you choose to go into work every day, do it on your own terms. The details of our narratives do not matter as much as what we do, feel, and say about them.
Face your fears. Even though we might be afraid, we still have to address office issues. Turn around and face your fears. A person who doesn’t know what scares them will have a hard time working to effect change. What if we could speak up about injustice, confront inappropriate behavior, and stand your ground? We can do these things, and we must, even when we are afraid.
Speak up about how you feel. Feel your feelings and maintain your voice, regardless of the situation. If you are congratulated for working hard, then celebrate it. If you love what you do, then exude joy. Conversely, if you are unhappy about a boss or colleague stealing your work and taking credit for it, then be upset. Confront the issue at hand. You have a powerful voice, use it!
Be a beacon at work. You have a great opportunity to model the behavior you would like to experience. Let your passion draw your colleagues to you.
—Laura Newberry-Yokley, Holistic Leadership Coach
