When at work, there may be times when someone may disagree with what you have done or said, have misunderstood your intentions, or caused a disruption or delay in what you need to do. How do you usually react in those circumstances? Do you "lose your cool"? Or, do you remain even-tempered, no matter how difficult the situation?
"The one who has knowledge uses words with restraint, and whoever has understanding is even-tempered." (Proverbs 17:27)
How can you be even-tempered when things around you are chaotic and stressful?
How do you "keep your cool" when everyone around you is losing theirs?
It is essential to recognize that being even-tempered is not reflective of a lack of care. Instead, it reflects an ability to be calm in a situation when you need to use your energy to solve a problem. Also, if you are composed and working to resolve a concern, this may help others behave similarly.
We are better able to deal with a situation when we are prepared for it. You may be surprised by what has happened, but you never have to doubt how you should consistently react. Therefore, make a commitment to control your reaction to a stressful situation by deciding ahead of time never to lose control of your emotions. Instead, make a commitment to gather knowledge, use words with restraint, and be even-tempered.
Here are seven tips on how to remain "cool" at work and not "hot"-tempered:
1. Start every day with a prayer that God will give you the wisdom and strength to be even-tempered in all situations. Take Proverbs 17:27 above to work every day!
2. Recognize specific "triggers" that tempt you to "lose your cool." Is it a particular circumstance? A certain person? A certain emotion? Know what your "red flags" are.
3. Recognize that being calm can help others be calm.
"Fools give full vent to their rage, but the wise bring calm in the end." (Proverbs 29:1)
4. Determine a strategy when you feel you are starting to "lose your cool." Make the first step a quick prayer to God and ask Him for patience.
5. Recognize impatience will impede your understanding of the situation.
"Whoever is patient has great understanding, but one who is quick-tempered displays folly." (Proverbs 14:29)
6. Determine to be careful with what you say and when you say it.
"Be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger." (James 1:9)
7. It is important to remember we are human, and we make mistakes. There may be a situation when you have "lost your cool" and said things you regret. It is never too late to talk to the person and apologize. If there is something heavy on your heart because of a tense conversation, please go to the person and speak to them about it.
Taking It to God in Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, my desire is to honor You in all I do and say. There will be times at work when I need to deal with stressful or upsetting situations. Help me to never "lose my cool" and react foolishly. Please give me the wisdom to be calm in every situation, seek knowledge and understanding, and use my words with restraint. I know I cannot do this on my own strength and ask for Your strength and guidance to react in a pleasing way to You. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
May God bless you this week as you take Proverbs to work!
Bonny, Christian Women at Work