When we’re stressed, we talk about it. (“Ugh, I have so much to do!”) But sharing our anxieties, which makes us feel better in the moment, makes the people around us feel worse. Like a contagion, stress can spread. To manage yours better, and to spare your coworkers from catching it, change how you talk when you’re frazzled. Don’t just tell your coworkers you’re stressed — tell them what you’re doing about it. Will you stop checking email on weekends? Take more walks during lunch? Get more sleep? Whatever it is, make it part of the conversation. You can also ask coworkers what has worked for them in the past. Discussing strategies, rather than just the problem, will create a positive and more supportive work environment. The goal isn’t to pretend everything is fine; it’s to stop wallowing in negativity.
Make it a great day!