I'm in crunch time at work now. I'm landing a huge program on August 25th, and we're definitely in the thick of it. Late nights and early mornings, last minute changes, additions to the plan. Thankfully I am starting to see the tunnel's end.
One thing I know for sure - I can get a little grumpy when I'm under deadline pressure. I'm sure my teammates felt it yesterday! :-) So, to lighten the load, I like to first remember to breathe, then laugh at myself. I sent my team this picture yesterday. That's me, growling. I hope they print it and throw darts at it. I might, too!
To stay calm and relaxed, I try, Try, TRY to maintain a sense of humor, a sense of perspective, and force myself to make time for a tea break. (Those things usually get chucked, in that order. I go around and try to pick them up at the start of each day.) They're too precious to give up, and I do so too willingly. And I NEED my tea breaks! I need those few minutes of relaxation in the middle of my day.
How do you deal with deadline stress?
Steph - i LOVE this pic of you! I think everyone should have a pic of themselves similar to this. (the new hairdo just accentuates the sassiness of the pic.)
ReplyDeleteHow do I deal with stress? Well, in a perfect world, I make sure to get enough sleep & meditate. Like you though, those things can go out the window when the chips are down. That's when I rely on lists so that when I lose my mind I still know what 'should' be done.
You do look like you are having fun!
ReplyDeleteAre you really working? ;)
Yes, I really, truly am working. :-)
ReplyDeleteLists! I have too many stickies all over the place. Need to make a big list!
Now yesterday I didn't deal too well with stress, but finally took time to think and went swimming. My equilibrium is back today.
ReplyDeleteLove the picture of you growling. Also love your new hair cut.
I wished I looked that nice when I growl :)
ReplyDeleteTo manage stress, I usually stop and ask myself, "What is my problem right at this moment?" When phrased that way I realize that the moment itself is fine and the "problem" is all in my head.
LOVE IT!!!!! What a great post! Have a great end of the work week.
ReplyDeleteFor me having a tea break is a huge help in any stressful situation. Your fun sense of humor and attitude toward co-workers seems to work well for you. Great growling photo!
ReplyDeleteHmmm. How do I handle deadline stress? Get snippy with the co-workers. Vent. Lots of chocolate. Fantasize about new job with no deadlines. (I don't recommend all this, mind you, it's just the technique I've perfected over time.)
ReplyDelete