Cultivating Serenity in the Workplace and Beyond

Posted 09 October 2012 in Career development

We often expect things to happen for us and get frustrated when they don't. We are impacted by world events. We can't control everything. The trick is knowing what we can, and focus there rather than becoming frustrated about things we can do nothing about. Easy to say, easy or difficult to implement?

Cultivating Serenity in the Workplace and Beyond

The serenity prayer of Alcoholics Anonymous says that the key to serenity is accepting what you cannot change, changing what you can, and possessing the wisdom to know the difference. This is a good model that covers a lot of ground, but how do you tell the difference between what you can and cannot change? Here are some things you do have control over.

Your actions. No one can "make" you do anything. If you're unhappy with your behavior at work or at home, change it, make amends if necessary, chart a new course.

Your words. Spoken or written, the words you choose impact your life and the lives of others. Choose your words carefully with workmates, colleagues, bosses, and clients, and quickly acknowledge any harm. Don't forget about social media updates too.

Your beliefs. If you believe that others should take care of your needs, then you will be frustrated when they don't. If you believe things must be a certain way, you'll surely face disappointment.

Your values. What's important to you is your choice. No one else should tell you what to value. Spend some time clarifying your values and then aligning your work and life with them.

Your work. No one else can contribute to the world in the same way as you. Do whatever it takes to find your work.

Your friends. Those you associate with say a lot about what you think about yourself. You can choose friends who support you or those who bring you down. The phrase "radiators or drains" comes to mind -find the radiators.

Your input. You can select your sources of news and entertainment. If you feel adversely affected, turn off the computer, the TV, and/or ignore advertising. Fill downtime from work with other activities, such as leisurely walks, gardening (weeding can be especially helpful in managing anxiety), and cooking or other creative pursuits.

Your time. Though it may not always feel this way, you do choose every day how to use its 24 hours. Fill those hours with more of what you truly want, and watch your contentment rise.

Your basic health. While you can't control your genetic make-up, you can choose to exercise, sleep enough, eat healthy food, and get routine check-ups. Don't forget your mental health. Treat yourself a little better; trust a little more that things will work out for you; if you need professional help don't let pride stop you from asking.

Your legacy. All that you choose while alive - your actions and words - will become the gift you leave when you die. What will be your legacy?