Feeling Sad at Work? Here's What to Do (For Yourself and Others)

In two prior posts, we looked the data and the leadership response to workplace sadness. This week, we bring it all home to you.

Not you the manager or leader of others. Just you. The human who shows up to work every day and sometimes feels the weight of it. 

First: Can You Recognize It? 

Sadness doesn't always announce itself. For a lot of us, and I work with enough of you to know this is true, we're not great at naming feelings.

So here's what to watch for:

• things feeling heavier than the situation warrants
• loss of interest in work or activities you used to enjoy
• low energy even after rest
• difficulty concentrating
• a creeping sense of "what's the point?"

 These are signals. Pay attention to them.

 What You Can Actually Do

1. Start by allowing the emotion. You're allowed to feel sad. Name it. Sit with it.
2. When you're ready to move through it, try this:

• Do something for someone else. It sounds counterintuitive, but shifting focus outward, mentoring, helping, showing up for a colleague, dramatically shifts your own sense of purpose and wellbeing.
•  Appreciate out loud: give specific appreciation & gratitude.
• Body movement.
• Time in nature.
• Limiting inputs that amplify negativity (yes, that includes the news and the sad playlist)
• Challenging your assumptions. Ask yourself whether what you believe is actually true, and whether you have more options than you think.

 How to Show Up for Others

You don't need a title to lead. The most powerful thing you can do for a struggling colleague is notice them. A cup of coffee. A simple "Hey, are you okay?" An invitation to go for a walk around the building. In a virtual meeting, say hello to the person who never speaks. Invite them for a virtual coffee. Acknowledge the people in the room with you.

Show specific appreciation. "I noticed you always get here early and get everything set up — that really matters." "Your data from last week helped me more than you know." It costs nothing. It lands.

When we shape how people experience work and life, with presence, awareness, and intention,  that's Peopleship. It starts with each of us, every single day.   

It costs nothing. It changes everything.

Watch the full Mini but Mighty℠ Leadership Lesson on YouTube Boss at the Helm.