Guest post by Monique Stubbs-Hall, volunteer and guest speaker in the Hospitality & Tourism Occupational Skills Training Course at Goodwill Industries of the Southern Piedmont.
How many times have we been told by our employers these very words: “When you come to work, leave your baggage at the door”?
Well I am here to tell you as an individual who came out of corporate America, it is easier said than done. Family issues, financial issues, health concerns and a host of daily situations swarm around all of us on a continuous basis.
Coping with life’s stressful situations can sometimes become so overwhelming that coming to work with a positive disposition is not always easy. In fact, we may begin to envy those around us who seem to bee-bop around the office as if nothing is remotely going on in their lives but sheer joy and happiness!
While I cannot give you a solution to make the “baggage” of life go away, I can certainly give you a few pointers that may help you cope enough to leave it at the door when you get to work. The last thing we want to do is bring everyone in the office down because we have a lot going on behind the scenes.
So here are a few suggestions:
The power of positive music
That’s right – music is powerful! Always keep “that song” in your car…you know, the one that has you jamming so much in the car that passersby just see you are in your zone! Had a rough night at home? Put in “that song” and do your thing…sing your heart out…as you roll to work. I assure you, you will reverse your mood. Try it!
Take a walk
Get up a little earlier before it’s time to go to work and take a brisk walk around the neighborhood. It has been proven that by moving in an upright position we improve our self-esteem, mood and decrease our stress level. Then add a smile as you walk and it has been proven to reduce depression and boost resilience. Now that’s a way to start the day!
If you are really on overload…bring a pair of tennis shoes to work and repeat this exercise at work on your lunch break to keep the stress down for the whole day!
Find a power partner
Select a friend that you trust and in whom you can confide to provide you pearls of wisdom or just be a listening ear when you are overwhelmed. Such a person can help you release your frustrations and be a sounding board so that you can clear your mind of your troubles. Now of course, they may not be able to cause them all to go away, but they can certainly give you some sound advice and if nothing else, make you feel loved and appreciated. Everyone needs a power partner. Inevitably you will become the same for them as well!
Well there you have it – three ways to save the day and “leave that baggage at the door.” You can do it!
By Monique Stubbs-Hall, The Greatness Groomer. Visit www.MoniqueTalks.com to learn more about her public speaking, business consulting and coaching services.
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