Performance stress is one of the most common sources of stress in the workplace. Many companies constantly hold their employees to a given set of standards. The amount of pressure to meet or exceed these company standards can lead one to question his or her abilities on a given task. There’s always this feeling of not being good enough in the standards of the company. In a family business this stress can be multiplied by pressure to perform well under the scrutiny of your parents, spouse, siblings or other family members.
This can be amplified when you are scheduled to make an important presentation for the company. Before the actual presentation, you may experience being nervous, edgy or actually feel physically ill. The pressure can be so intense that it effects your performance. To reduce this stress and perform to your highest ability you must learn to cope with your feelings so you can maintain your ability to deliver.
Performance Planning
One of the best ways to calm your nerves and ensure your performance is top notch is to have a performance plan. This plan will serve to outline what you need to achieve and how you are going to do it. Here are a few basic performance planning tips, covering the physical and mental aspects:
- Check every aspect of your performance so you can make necessary adjustments;
- If there is some travel involved, arrange it in advance;
- Verify whether you have all the items and objects you need;
- Come up with an alternate plan in case anything goes wrong at the steps you have previously outlined;
- Keep your mind focused on the task at hand. Do not let distracting thoughts pull your focus away. If possible, anticipate them before they happen so you can come up with a plan to counter their effects.
Reviewing Performance
One of the best ways to ensure that you always perform your best is to constantly look for ways to improve. This can actually alleviate performance stress because you know how to improve after each situation.
If possible, ask your supervisor or family members for their opinion about how to improve your performance. Performance stress typically originates from your tendency to question your ability (or inability) to succeed at a given task. When you increase your confidence about your performance, you’ll also be able to combat stress that is involved with it.
Creating Proper Mindset
Establishing a mindset that will effectively help you before, during, and after a performance will help get rid of the stress. You can try the following:
- Learn how to take criticism well. Instead of developing self-pity, utilize your mentor or co-worker’s opinion as a pointer for areas in which you can improve your performance.
- Never aim for perfection. You should focus on the steps you need to take instead of the end result. This will also help you be able to have fun with what you are doing, which is another way to relieve performance stress.
- Comparing yourself to other family members will not help you alleviate performance stress. Instead, focus on where you are and where you intend to go.
If any of these tips resonate with you, try them out and let me know the results!
