How do you handle conflicts or challenges in self-management?

1 Identify the source

The first step to handle any conflict or challenge in self-management is to identify the source of it. Is it an external factor, such as a deadline, a feedback, or a change in expectations? Or is it an internal factor, such as a lack of motivation, confidence, or skills? Knowing the source can help you decide the best course of action and avoid blaming yourself or others unnecessarily.

2 Seek feedback and support

The second step to handle any conflict or challenge in self-management is to seek feedback and support from others. You don't have to do everything on your own. You can ask for advice, guidance, or help from your manager, colleagues, mentors, or friends. They can offer you a different perspective, a valuable insight, or a practical solution. They can also provide you with encouragement, recognition, or accountability.

3 Use positive coping strategies

The third step to handle any conflict or challenge in self-management is to use positive coping strategies. These are ways to deal with stress, frustration, or anxiety that are healthy and constructive. Some examples are: taking breaks, exercising, meditating, journaling, or talking to someone. Avoid negative coping strategies, such as procrastinating, avoiding, or self-criticizing. They can worsen the situation and harm your well-being.

4 Learn from the experience

The fourth step to handle any conflict or challenge in self-management is to learn from the experience. Every conflict or challenge is an opportunity to grow and improve. You can reflect on what went well, what went wrong, and what you can do differently next time. You can also celebrate your achievements, acknowledge your efforts, and reward yourself. Learning from the experience can help you increase your self-awareness, self-efficacy, and self-esteem.

5 Adapt and adjust

The fifth step to handle any conflict or challenge in self-management is to adapt and adjust. You need to be flexible and resilient in the face of change and uncertainty. You can't control everything, but you can control how you respond to it. You can embrace change as a chance to learn, innovate, and experiment. You can also adjust your goals, plans, and strategies according to the new situation and feedback.

6 Enhance your intrinsic motivation and autonomy

The sixth step to handle any conflict or challenge in self-management is to enhance your intrinsic motivation and autonomy. These are the inner drives that make you want to do something for its own sake, not for external rewards or pressures. They can help you overcome obstacles, persist in your efforts, and enjoy your work. You can enhance your intrinsic motivation and autonomy by: choosing meaningful and challenging tasks, setting your own goals and standards, and expressing your creativity and identity.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?