Coach and business consultant Evgeny Kreslavsky is sure that we can become happier in the workplace.
“At the beginning of the year, two colleagues were fired, and there will be more layoffs,” says Dmitry, 35. “I am in despair, I don’t know how to pay for my daughter’s studies if I am left without this job.”
When we cannot control the situation and do not understand what awaits us tomorrow, we are acutely aware of our helplessness, we feel shame because we are so dependent on others, and guilt because we did not foresee, did not prepare … At such moments, we are especially vulnerable: we feel unfairly offended, we perceive any information distortedly: it causes a new wave of panic. Needless to say, all this does not contribute to energetic and fruitful work, and in a crisis situation, professionalism is doubly in demand. Where to get resources?
Support Group. When we are confused, the horizon of our consciousness narrows and we do not notice all the possibilities that we actually have. Do this exercise: leaf through old notebooks, check your mail and make a list of all your acquaintances. And then divide them into groups: first, write down those who could support you emotionally — listen, sympathize; secondly, those who are able to help financially; in the third — those who are ready to share contacts and connections. When you conduct such an audit, you will understand that you are not alone and you definitely have someone to turn to for support (the main thing is to allow yourself to receive it!). The names of old acquaintances are sure to give you fresh ideas and plans that you will use if the situation at work becomes critical.
Homework. Analyze your internal resources. What are you best at doing? Interact with different people, edit videos, work with spreadsheets… Can you apply these skills in a new way — not in another company, but in your workplace? In a crisis, companies are interested in employees expanding their range of responsibilities. The ability to take on additional tasks, more complex and unexpected functions — this is a real chance for you to save your place, and maybe take a higher post.
active position. Do not expect ready-made solutions from the management, if possible, get involved in the planning processes yourself and offer solutions that will help the company get out of the crisis. The search for someone to blame for the fact that our life is changing prevents us from realizing the measure of our own responsibility for what is happening. The feeling that we are not victims of circumstances, but rescuers of a cause that interests us, gives strength and hope in order to work effectively. To live, not survive in new conditions.