In 2018, roughly one in every five adults was diagnosed with a mental condition. Adults experiencing pandemic-related mental discomfort exacerbated the problem in 2020. The World Health Organization estimates that depression and anxiety cost the global economy $1 trillion in lost productivity each year, which made Workplace psychological safety more crucial than ever before.
Psychological safety is the assurance that speaking up will not cause embarrassment, rejection, or punishment on the team. It refers to a working environment characterised by interpersonal trust and mutual respect, in which people are free to be themselves. Most professionals have an irrational fear of being criticised and ridiculed, and as a result, they tend to keep quiet about many ideas that they consider to be too ridiculous to share.
Here are some strategies to help you build psychological safety for yourself in the workplace.
By discussing your own feelings, you're demonstrating that it's okay to talk about them. Openly express your opinions, even if you believe they will be unpopular. Accept responsibility for your own mistakes and failings, and turn them into lessons. Be modest and ask for comments, as well as seek assistance or direction.
Consider this: when was the last time you let your defences down and made yourself vulnerable at work? If you're like the majority of individuals, your brain's survival systems went off, either consciously or subconsciously. The assumption that failure only leads to terrible things is ingrained in all of this. This is not a psychologically secure setting if this is the internal debate you're having in your brain.
You may, however, choose to view things in a different light at any time. You always have the option of changing your perspective, and it's up to you to pick one that promotes rather than hinders your success
Saying "no" is a crucial element of maintaining your comfort level throughout your profession. It's possible that your boss or a coworker will ask you to do something you really don't want to do. Although being agreeable is a vital element of being a team player, there are times when standing up for yourself and saying "no" is the best course of action. Instead of responding "maybe" or "I don't think so," be direct in your response. Giving a brief explanation of why you are answering "no" is respectful. This might assist soften your response and making it clear why you're declining.
Understanding your workplace rights and duties in terms of pay and conditions, health and safety, and workplace bullying is critical. To be aware of your workplace rights and obligations, as well as the terms and circumstances of your employment, and to be aware of where you can obtain information when you need it. Know your rights when it comes to bullying and discrimination. Know what to do if you or someone you work with is subjected to this. Understand and learn how to keep yourself and others safe in a safe environment. It's also crucial to have all of the necessary safety gear and equipment on hand in the case of an accident.
Safety is not something that happens by chance. To ensure everyone's well-being at work, a lot of thinking and activity is required. When you know your organisation already has all of the resources, tools, and equipment you'll need for your psychological well-being, you may take steps to make use of them.
It is critical to begin the process of ensuring safety as soon as you recognise a problem within yourself or around you. Be confident enough to take the necessary steps to reduce or eliminate the problem. Employees who simply recognise dangers but do nothing to address them put everyone in the work environment at risk. Nothing gets done if you don't take action.
