As State of the Future of Work Report highlights how many people are struggling with feelings of uncertainty, workplace expert Michelle Gibbings urges EAs to equip themselves with robust strategies that will help navigate uncertainty and make wise choices. She suggests you can thrive in a fast-paced environment by doing the following:
Be adventurous
Open yourself up to new experiences and people to broaden your perspective, challenge your assumptions and be more open to new ways of doing things. Surround yourself with people who uplift and inspire you to be your best self.
Adopt a growth mindset
How you react to mistakes and your ability to learn from mistakes determines whether you have a fixed or growth mindset. World-renowned academic Carol Dweck found people with a fixed mindset see intelligence as static – a fixed trait. They always want to look smart, as though they have all the answers. They believe success is based on talent alone, they avoid challenges and give up more quickly. They ignore feedback (which they see as criticism) and feel threatened by the success of others.
In contrast, people with a growth mindset believe intelligence can be developed through hard work and effort. They are more eager to embrace learning, take on challenges and persist. They usually display higher resilience, are more willing to learn from others and receive feedback. Applying a growth mindset will give you resilience and optimism to work through a situation.
Embrace your emotions
Emotions change your physiology, perception and where you place your attention. First, acknowledge and accept your feelings. Then dig into the meaning you give those feelings – what are they telling you to do? Next, consider what you can and can’t change, and how you can shift your perspective to focus on what you have (rather than what you don’t have). Lastly, try to reframe the meaning you are putting on what is happening and what you can do to shift that.
Take a risk
To have a healthy and thriving career, throw away the ‘shoulds’ and the expectations of others. Of course, pursuing your purpose and dream job can come with risk. But the more you are willing to take a risk, the more likely you are to have a career that aligns with your purpose and values.
Think long-term
The occasional down day or go-slow day won’t have a massive impact. So, manage your energy, and give yourself time and space. If you need a break, take it – yet always keep your eye on your goals. Never forget you need your health and wellbeing along for the ride to make sustained progress. As author Maya Angelou once said: “Nothing will work unless you do”.
