Acknowledge different experiences.
It can be easy, particularly during stressful times to disregards someone else’s experiences, just simply because it is different to ours. For example, a parent working from home may view a single person working from home as having an easier time, although this person may be experiencing anxiety through self-isolation.
Consider everyone’s circumstances.
For example, those looking after their elderly relatives, loved ones with special needs, or those with families in other locations. Things we can do to support each other include:
- Listening intently to understand how someone else may be feeling.
- Considering ways to keep your community connections.
- Practicing gratitude by extending a helping hand.
- Being kind with yourself, we all may experience ups and downs during this time.
Give genuine recognition
. In our new remote work environment, it can be easy to feel isolated or uncertain on how we’re doing without a feedback loop or the ability to see body language of our colleagues. If you have the opportunity to check in with a co-worker or show appreciation for something they’ve done well, that recognition could be just what they needed to keep them motivated and feeling like they’re adding value day-to-day.
Stock up on compassion.
Everyone will have varying levels of fear and anxiety that will manifest in different ways. Perhaps a co-worker is more on edge than usual or behaving in a way that is not typical for them. This is likely a response to their feelings and how they’re dealing with their surrounding environment. Try to be patient and think about how that person usually is and not who they seem to be in this moment.
“Empathy is seeing with the eyes of another, listening with the ears of another and feeling with the heart of another.” – Alfred Adler
