Learn how to cope with change and reduce stress using performance management principles. This article covers six steps to help you understand, communicate, adapt, balance, care, and celebrate during times of change.

One of the key enablers to successful change in any organisation is to be clear and concise with why the change is required and the benefits it will bring to the team and individuals , transparency and engagement is absolutely one of the success enablers, this includes when the change affects team size reductions or displacements , difficult conversations must be tackled early on in the process and HR must be fully engaged and honest.

How do you manage stress in a changing environment?

Change is inevitable in any organization, but it can also be a source of stress for employees and managers alike. How do you cope with the uncertainty, the demands, and the potential conflicts that come with a changing environment? In this article, we will explore some strategies for managing stress in a changing environment, based on the principles of performance management.

1 Understand the change

The first step to managing stress in a changing environment is to understand the nature, the purpose, and the impact of the change. What are the goals and benefits of the change? How does it affect your role, your team, and your stakeholders? What are the risks and challenges involved? By clarifying these questions, you can reduce the ambiguity and anxiety that often accompany change, and align your expectations and actions with the desired outcomes.

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2 Communicate effectively

The second step to managing stress in a changing environment is to communicate effectively with your team, your manager, and your peers. Communication is key to building trust, collaboration, and support during times of change. You should share information, feedback, and concerns openly and honestly, and listen to the perspectives and needs of others. You should also seek and provide guidance, coaching, and recognition to help yourself and others cope with the change.

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Gareth Lewis.

Senior Director Quality & Compliance | Quality Assurance, Compliance Leadership
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One of the key enablers to successful change in any organisation is to be clear and concise with why the change is required and the benefits it will bring to the team and individuals , transparency and engagement is absolutely one of the success enablers, this includes when the change affects team size reductions or displacements , difficult conversations must be tackled early on in the process and HR must be fully engaged and honest.

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3 Adapt and learn

The third step to managing stress in a changing environment is to adapt and learn from the change. Change often requires you to adjust your skills, behaviors, and mindsets to fit the new situation. You should embrace the opportunities for learning and development that come with change, and seek feedback and support to improve your performance. You should also be flexible and resilient, and accept that change may involve some setbacks, mistakes, and uncertainty.

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4 Balance your priorities

The fourth step to managing stress in a changing environment is to balance your priorities and resources. Change can often increase your workload, your responsibilities, and your pressure to deliver results. You should prioritize your tasks and goals according to their urgency and importance, and delegate or outsource what you can. You should also manage your time, energy, and attention effectively, and avoid distractions and procrastination.

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5 Take care of yourself

The fifth step to managing stress in a changing environment is to take care of yourself physically, mentally, and emotionally. Change can take a toll on your health and well-being, so you should practice self-care and wellness habits that help you cope. You should get enough sleep, exercise, nutrition, and hydration, and avoid substance abuse and unhealthy coping mechanisms. You should also find ways to relax, unwind, and enjoy yourself, and seek support from your friends, family, or professionals if needed.

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Sonal Joshi

Associate Director - Global HR Shared Services | Certified Human Resource Professional | Certified NLP Practitioner | SSB - Service Selection Board Coach & Mentor Indian Armed Forces 🇮🇳 | Top HR Leader Pune 2024
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This is the most critical aspect that is very much underrated. When going through a change its imperative to check on ones well being. You cannot navigate through the change if you are Physically & mentally not ready. Its important to be vocal about how you feel, acknowledge your feelings and its ok to say No if that makes u feel better. Life is not an option its a priority that surpasses everything 🙂

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6 Celebrate your achievements

The sixth and final step to managing stress in a changing environment is to celebrate your achievements and progress. Change can be challenging, but it can also be rewarding and satisfying. You should acknowledge and appreciate your efforts, your results, and your growth, and celebrate them with your team, your manager, and your peers. You should also reflect on what you have learned, what you have accomplished, and what you can improve for the future.

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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?

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How do you manage stress in a changing environment?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Understand the change

2 Communicate effectively

3 Adapt and learn

4 Balance your priorities

5 Take care of yourself

6 Celebrate your achievements

7 Here’s what else to consider

Performance Management

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How do you manage stress in a changing environment?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Understand the change

2 Communicate effectively

3 Adapt and learn

4 Balance your priorities

5 Take care of yourself

6 Celebrate your achievements

7 Here’s what else to consider

Performance Management

Rate this article

Thanks for your feedback

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