Shivani Misri Sadhoo on handling your temper in a meeting
Workplace is probably one of the most complex places where pressures are high and tempers run haywire. But it is also the place where you need to walk the talk
Most of us have gone through a situation where our favourite project was cancelled after all the hard work, when our boss assigns more work when we were already overloaded, our leaves get cancelled or we do not get satisfactory increment. And the feeling that surges through at that moment is anger! And it’s a huge struggle to control this at that moment. Sometimes one does fail to control the outburst and protests. And then suffer the repercussions. WHAT CAUSES ANGER? Spiritual texts define anger as a demon inside the person. Some examples of when anger originates: • You were overburdened with work and missed to clearly communicate the same to your boss or co-worker. • You were focused on your thoughts and interpreted your co-worker or your boss’ point. • You could have fallen in a controversial trap by a senior. HOW TO OVERCOME ANGER • Treat every person with courtesy and respect, as you would treat anyone else. Just because one person behaves in an unprofessional manner that doesn’t mean you should follow him/her as well. • If your co-worker or subordinate takes you for granted even as you are polite, it’s time to reevaluate your leadership qualities. • Try to be assertive. If the other person is rude and unprofessional, then explain that you refuse to be treated that way and calmly leave the situation. Remember to set the example. • If you disagree with your co-worker or with your boss’s point of view, then watch out for early signs of anger. Stopping your anger early is the key. Remember, you can choose how you react in a situation. • If you feel the anger rising, stop what you are doing. Close your eyes and take some deep breaths. This will interrupt your angry thoughts and helps you realign on a more positive path. It will help you become more harmonious also. • Picture yourself when you’re angry. If you imagine how you look and behave while you’re angry, it gives you some perspective on the situation. Is your face red when you are shouting? Are you waving your arms around? Would you want to work with someone like that? Probably not!