Managing Election Stress in the Workplace

With the elections just around the corner, I wanted to take a moment to acknowledge the stress and anxiety that many leaders may be experiencing.

We've been doing a lot of coaching on managing the stress people are experiencing this election cycle.

It's not surprising, considering a recent American Psychiatric Association survey revealed a whopping 73% of US adults find the election a significant source of anxiety. 

The problem is our brains crave predictability, and elections, by nature, are full of uncertainty.

This means that even those who aren't glued to the news cycle can feel the tension and experience heightened anxiety, and that can take a toll on our mental health and well-being.

I want to remind you that feeling overwhelmed and anxious during this time is perfectly normal, but it's essential to prioritize your mental health and take steps to manage your stress levels.

So, how can you support yourself and your teams through this election season?

Here are a few tips that might be helpful for you.

Managing Your Own Anxiety

• Limit your news and social media consumption: Stay informed, but set boundaries on how much time you spend watching, reading, scrolling, or listening to the news, podcasts, and videos.

• Engage in healthy coping mechanisms: Find activities that help you relax, such as exercise, meditation, walking, massage, downloading the Calm app, diffusing lavender essential oil, or listening to music.

• Acknowledge your feelings: Don't ignore how you're feeling. Share your thoughts with family or friends so you won't be overwhelmed by them. And be kind to yourself during this time.

• Seek professional support if needed: If you're struggling to manage your anxiety, don't hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional.

Managing Your Team's Anxiety

• Acknowledge the stress, not the politics: Instead of sending a general message, consider holding brief team check-ins or offering individual support. This allows for more personalized acknowledgment of stress without forcing a company-wide conversation.
• Prioritize Flexibility: In addition to allowing time off, actively encourage employees to prioritize self-care and utilize available benefits like your Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs). Adjust deadlines, shift meeting times, or provide "no-meeting" blocks of time for individuals to decompress.
• Cultivate connections, not just discussions: Instead of facilitating discussions, use this time to foster genuine connection and understanding. Create a safe space for employees to share their feelings and create community. Promote active listening and empathy, and be sure to lead by example. 

As leaders, it's crucial to recognize the impact of current events and the upcoming election on your team's well-being. These times call for compassionate leadership.

By prioritizing your own self-care and your team's well-being, you'll be able to navigate this period together and emerge stronger. Your collective strength lies in your ability to uplift and support one another, especially during challenging times.

Together, you'll build a more resilient team capable of overcoming any challenge.