In my experience in business coaching, there are two primary mindsets people have about their work. The first is the War Mindset. Somebody with this mindset sees work as a battle and themselves as a soldier.
It’s hardly surprising then that they often finish their day completely exhausted and defeated by their perceived skirmishes.
The second mindset is the Game Mindset. Executives living this paradigm are just as committed to excellence as the first group, but they see themselves as competing in an exciting and entertaining game.
They still try really hard, but they are eminently aware that their doing this for fun as much as money.
Time and time again I have seen people who think this way both outperform the warriors and simultaneously be more relaxed and happier.
If you’re feeling a little worn out by work, consider putting a Post It note on your desk with the word ‘Game’ on it, so you can be reminded to keep this mindset all day long.
You’ll be surprised at what a difference it makes.
USE THE ‘NEXT RIGHT CHOICE’ TECHNIQUE.
This is a highly effective method of stress reduction taught by the brilliant high performance coach, Dr Dennis Deaton.
When you are stressed at work you take two minutes to mentally visualize yourself making the right choice in that situation. So for example if you are clashing with a colleague, just before you are scheduled to have a meeting with that person you mentally see yourself as being calm, rational, and effective in your conversation with them.
It’s a very simple technique from the best business coaching program that can lead to virtually immediate improvements in performance and reductions in stress.
TRY THE BREATH RELEASE.
This is one of my personal favorites. Whenever you are in a high stress situation, take a deep breath and then rapidly exhale, as you simultaneously imagine that particular stress leaving your body.
My personal belief is that mental stresses have corresponding physical components in our bodies. When we physically attempt to expel them there is almost always a dramatic improvement in how we feel.
These are three highly effective techniques for reducing your workplace stress.
Used in combination they can turn even the most stressed worker into someone who is happier, calmer and significantly more effective.
