Stoicism is an ancient Greek philosophy that teaches us to keep calm and persevere in adversity.
This philosophy can be beneficial for managers in dealing with the inevitable stresses and frustrations of the workplace.
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Practicing stoicism at work can help us maintain emotional control, focus on what we can control, and prevent anxiety and anger from diminishing productivity and well-being.
Background on Stoicism at Work
The principles of stoicism were first developed in ancient Greece and Rome.
The stoics believed becoming emotionally disturbed about things we can’t control is pointless. Instead, we should focus our energy on the things we can control – our thoughts, attitudes, and actions.
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In the modern workplace, stoicism helps us roll with the punches.
When faced with unreasonable demands, office politics, difficult coworkers, and other workplace stressors, stoicism reminds us not to get worked up over what we can’t control.
It enables us to channel our energy into productive action and build teamwork instead of unproductive worry and frustration.
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Theory Behind Stoicism at Work
Stoicism is built on the premise that we can’t control external events, but we can control how we respond to them.
The philosophy emphasizes clear judgment, self-control, and mental fortitude.
By following several key principles, we can use stoicism to manage stress and thrive at work:
- Focus on what you can control – Don’t waste energy worrying about things outside your control like other people’s actions. Focus on controlling your own thoughts and behaviors.
- Manage your emotions – Don’t let emotions like anxiety, anger, and envy cloud your judgment and disrupt your inner calm. Practice self-regulation.
- Practice objectivity – Look at challenges and frustrations rationally and objectively without exaggerating their importance. Maintain perspective.
- Reflect on your behavior – At the end of each day, reflect on your actions and attitudes. Identify what went well and areas for improvement.
- Follow your values – Remind yourself of your core values and purpose. Make choices aligned with your principles rather than external pressures.
Ten Ways to Practice Stoicism at Work
Here are ten impactful ways to apply the principles of stoicism to navigate workplace challenges skillfully and effectively:
1. Focus on the aspects of your job you can control
Rather than worry about uncertainties like potential layoffs, focus your energy on doing excellent work and being a valuable employee.
2. Don’t take confrontations personally
If a coworker or boss lashes out, remain calm and professional. Don’t take it personally or let it affect your self-worth.
3. Look at the big picture
When faced with a major project or deadline, take a step back to get perspective. How important is it in the grand scheme of things? What’s the worst that could happen if it’s not perfect?
4. Avoid office gossip and politics
Don’t get embroiled in petty disagreements, gossip, and power struggles. Remain detached from the rumor mill.
5. Reframe problems as opportunities
Look for ways to grow and gain wisdom when faced with failures or roadblocks. Maintain a learning mindset.
6. Focus on solutions, not complaints
When dealing with challenges, avoid dwelling on the problem. Direct your energy toward practical solutions.
7. Take a pause when triggered
When you feel your anger or anxiety flaring up, take a few deep breaths. Don’t act rashly. Respond thoughtfully.
8. Establish proper boundaries
Don’t take on excessive workloads or responsibilities. Learn to say no to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
9. Avoid perfectionism
Striving for perfection often leads to frustration. Focus on doing your best, then move forward.
10. Develop self-awareness
Reflect each day on your thoughts and behaviors. Identify areas where you demonstrated stoic principles or have room for improvement.
Summary of Benefits
Applying stoic philosophy at work provides many advantages:
- Greater resilience and emotional control when faced with stressors.
- Ability to focus time and energy on productive tasks.
- Reduced anxiety, frustration, anger, and perfectionism.
- Improved judgment, rational thinking, and decision making.
- Enhanced professionalism and leadership skills.
- Increased life satisfaction and work-life balance.
In summary, stoicism is a powerful framework for staying centered and maximizing your potential at work, no matter what challenges come your way.
By focusing on what you can control and looking at difficulties rationally and objectively, you can achieve remarkable calm, clarity, and performance.
With 30+ years of experience, Catherine Fitzgerald, B.A., M.A., PGDip, founded Oak Innovation in 1995. Catherine received her Bachelor’s degree and Master’s from University College Cork. She holds qualifications in Professional Development And Training from University College Galway. She is completing a second Master’s from University College Cork. Since 1995, clients include Apple, Time Warner, and Harvard University.
