by Cathy Sedacca
Stress happens.
No matter how great your office or work culture is, stress levels will rise periodically.
What really matters, and what we as leaders can control, is how we deal with that stress.
Leaders set the tone. A calm leader who maintains their equilibrium under challenging conditions creates a positive environment in which teams can function.
So the next time your team feels the crunch, try to:
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Acknowledge it.
It’s important to acknowledge that the situation is causing increased stress levels, and that you’re not alone if you’re feeling it. By acknowledging your own stress, you give permission for the team to disclose their own, creating a safe environment and a way for people to support one another. There’s nothing worse than a leader who is either oblivious to the team’s well-being, or worse, apathetic.
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Stay positive.
With that said, it’s important to know that the more stress you show, the more stress your team feels. When my daughter was a baby, she had some medical problems that required hospitalization. I still vividly remember being freaked out and not wanting to hold her because she was connected to so many lines and tubes. Seeing my struggle, the doctor told me that my daughter would base her reaction to the adversity based on mine. I regrouped, knowing I needed to remain calm and hold her as I normally would. I think of that doctor’s advice often when others look to me for reassurance during stressful situations.
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Offer stress reducers.
A little fun or some treats can go a long way toward reducing stress—at least temporarily. So stop on the way to work and bring in some tasty treats. Buying lunch or arranging a happy hour can also be welcome respites. Some non-traditional, but no less effective ideas include bringing in a yoga instructor or massage therapist and handing out restaurant or spa gift certificates. It’s a great way to acknowledge the stress while showing your appreciation for the great job your team is doing under pressure.
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Understand that all stress isn’t bad.
Small amounts of stress and pressure can inspire your team to great results and help reveal their true capabilities. Your job is to help them keep their eyes on the prize and celebrate their ultimate success.
It’s not a matter of if your team will have stress but when.
Having a plan to deal with it and successfully creating an environment in which teams can be productive—and even flourish—is the difference between merely surviving stress, and thriving in it.
Cathy Sedacca is director of sales and marketing for Sage Business Credit. She partnered with Karen Turnquist to found Sage because she believed they could do what had been done by others, but better. Working closely with clients who share the same vision for their own business is the best part of her job.