Started a new job only to discover it’s a minefield of gossip and negativity? Is your workload causing your social life to shrivel up? Or is management leaving you feeling micromanaged or, worse, neglected? A leading workplace relations expert says only a rare number of Australians really focus on achieving contentment at work.
Dr Mary Casey (Doctorate of Psychology), CEO of leading health and education organisation Casey Centre, says even though many of us think we could never be content at work, we aren’t powerless and can achieve satisfaction.
“I always recommend that early on in a new role, spot where the negativity is coming from – a particular person, team, or project,” says Dr Casey, “Once you’ve identified it, set strong boundaries so it’s easier to deal with.” Dr Mary Casey’s
Seven strategies for achieving personal happiness at work:
1. Choose your job carefully:
Establishing a feel for a work environment early on can save you later. “In the interview, ask questions about the work culture. Asking these questions will help you gauge the environment and whether the salary will be worth a potentially negative climate,” Dr Casey says.
2. Don’t take anything personally:
“For your sanity, it is worth developing some emotional and mental detachment,” Dr Casey says. “Being detached in the workplace means you are able to judge and make decisions rationally and impartially.”
3. Don’t let negative emotions control you:
Negative feelings – however small – have such an impact on us they can overwhelm anything positive. “When you feel like you are losing control to anger, stress or fear, take a short walk around the block. Never get emotional in front of managers or colleagues,” Dr Casey says.
4. Disengage from manipulators:
“Manipulation can be so subtle most victims are unaware they are a target,” Dr Casey says. “When confronting a manipulative co-worker, they may play emotional games to make you feel guilty or discredit you. Don’t be pulled into their tactics – take the discussion back to the issue you are trying to confront.”
5. Create positive allies:
You can create a positive workplace “sub-culture” by developing friendships with like-minded co-workers. “There’s nothing like having a laugh in the day with colleagues. Identify positive, supportive colleagues and go to lunch or drinks with them to develop the relationship.”
6. Find fulfilment elsewhere:
Taking up a sport; hobby or volunteering can also create a sense of fulfilment in our lives. “Committing yourself to something you really enjoy will help with your mindset when at work.”
7.Treat yourself:
Do good things for yourself throughout the day. “If you find your morning is turning into a disaster, organise dinner with a friend, buy flowers for your desk, anything that makes you feel good,” Dr Casey says. “I always recommend that when possible, sit outside during lunch. Studies have shown that sunlight boosts moods.”
Apply these quick tips before heading to work each today to ensure happiness at work and keeping out of those gossip circles!
1. Prepare yourself for the day, before work, to not listen to gossip or get involved with anyone talking about another.
2. When someone says something negative come back with a positive statement and ignore what they said. They will leave you alone.
3. Be clear and specific in all your conversations. Make sure you have clear boundaries about what is and what is not acceptable to you.
A workplace relationship expert, Dr Casey is the author of How to Deal with Master Manipulators ($69.95, Casey Centre), a DVD and workbook with effective strategies to deal with manipulation at home or work. Visit www.dealwithmanipulators.com
