12 SEP 2023

Building Bridges in the Workplace: Tackling Performance Anxiety Together

In today’s fast-paced work environment, performance anxiety has become an all-too-common hurdle many employees face, often manifesting as jittery nerves before a presentation or a meeting. While it might seem minor, this anxiety can actually be a stumbling block that prevents individuals from showcasing their true potential. However, by fostering a workplace where psychological safety is a priority, we can pave the way for healthier, happier, and more productive teams.

So, what exactly is this elusive concept of psychological safety, and how can it play a role in curbing performance anxiety?

Your Role as a Leader in Spotting the Signs

As a leader, it falls on you to be the vigilant guardian of your team’s wellbeing. Performance anxiety might not always show itself in glaring, obvious ways. But by tuning into the nuanced shifts in your team members' behaviours and interactions, you can often spot signs that someone is grappling with anxiety.

You might notice an employee who usually is a star at presentations suddenly avoiding eye contact or maybe sweating profusely. Or perhaps, they might be sinking into longer work hours, trying to mask their nervousness with an overzealous commitment to perfection. Sometimes, it might just be a retreat from group activities or a noticeable nervousness during team meetings.

Understanding that these signs can sometimes be deceptive is crucial. They might indicate deeper issues or external stressors. Thus, spotting these signs should ideally be a segue into empathetic conversations rather than swift judgments.

Crafting a Haven of Psychological Safety

Creating a haven where employees feel seen, respected, and valued isn't a task achieved overnight. It demands a continuous commitment to nurturing an environment where openness and mental well-being are championed. Here’s how you can kickstart this journey:

• Open Dialogue: Encourage an environment where sharing isn't frowned upon but embraced. Let your team know that their thoughts and feelings matter and that reaching out for help is not only allowed but encouraged.
• Balanced Life: Advocate for a balanced life where work doesn't encroach upon personal time. A relaxed mind can often be a shield against mounting anxiety.
• Celebrating Achievements: A little recognition can go a long way. Make it a habit to acknowledge the efforts of your team, offering praise and constructive feedback to foster a positive work atmosphere.
• Mental Health Resources: Provide your team with the tools to battle anxiety head-on. Whether it’s access to mental health programs or resources, equip your team with avenues to seek help and grow.

Remember, training isn't just for your employees. As a leader, familiarise yourself with the essentials of mental health first aid to adeptly navigate the complex landscape of workplace anxiety.

The Imperative of Psychological Safety

Embracing psychological safety isn't just about alleviating performance anxiety. It's about crafting a company culture that celebrates inclusivity and empathy. As someone at the helm of team dynamics, you hold the reins in fostering a space where stigma finds no ground and every individual feels valued and supported.

Performance anxiety may sometimes reveal itself in whispers rather than shouts. Recognising this and establishing a nurturing environment is not a one-off task, but a relentless pursuit. Through empathy and open dialogues, you can pave the way for a workplace where everyone not just fits in, but thrives.

As we journey forward in building resilient and empathetic work cultures, let's remember that addressing the mental well-being of our team members isn't just a responsibility but a privilege, opening doors to a harmonious, productive, and vibrant work environment.