Take it IN

We all manage the inevitable ups and downs in the workplace in different ways. But when the workplace becomes toxic and we interpret the situation as all our fault, believe it must be something wrong with us, and internalise it, that's not healthy.

Introspection isn't a bad thing. Reflecting on the role you played in what's happening can help you find your way through a crappy situation. Understanding what worked, what didn't, and what you could do better or differently next time is a very important part of our growth and learning.

Examining your part in a situation can help you regain some balance and even find greater strength.

But when you let what's out of your control take over, you start to lose your mojo. I see this in people who are stymied at work by poor managers and relationships with co-workers, too much work (the Every-THING workplace), too little progress (the No-THING workplace), systems and bureaucracy. It starts a negative spiral that can severely diminish confidence and impact your mental and physical health.

So put your hand up when you stuff up. But get some perspective on what other factors played a role. You are not doing yourself or anyone a favour by being a victim and giving away your power.

If you are taking this all in and damaging yourself, talk to someone and begin the tough work of establishing healthy boundaries. Where do you have control? Where can you influence? What can you change? And what do you need to let go of?

#doonethingdeep #makeworklessshit #boundaries #responsibility