Archive of past issues

How Do You Really Feel about Your Job?

“How are things going for you at work?” John asked Mary.

“Fine” was Mary’s barely audible reply, uttered as she looked off into the distance and rubbed her temples. Then she looked away from John, rolled her eyes and said, “Everyone asks. I’m getting the promotion, so I’m dandy as candy. Really.” She got up abruptly from the table and marched out of the company café.

Did Mary really feel ‘fine’ about her job? No way. How do we know? Her body language tells us.

Have you tried to figure out how you really feel about your job? Often, it can be difficult to get a clear reading. If you even consider leaving your job for a second, your brain may be triggered with anxiety about issues like money, perks, colleagues

Instead of getting trapped in your mind, this might be a good time to check in on your sensations. The physical feelings in our body tend to be a truer gauge than our minds. Our minds are easily influenced by external societal, economic, and political influences. Our bodies generally give us a clearer reading of what’s important. They connect us to what’s authentically true for us.

Scan your body and see if you notice any of these body indicators of tension:

Head and chin jutted forward (often signals defiance) Holding your head on one side (may show doubt) Jaw tight (often signals anger) Shoulders raised (may indicate fear) Shoulders curved toward front of body (may hint at submissiveness) Fists clenched (often means anger) Calves tight (could be braced for fear or confrontation) Hands fiercely gripping pen, telephone, steering wheel, cup handle, computer mouse (can be “holding onto” an issue or emotion) Stomach tight (could be related to fear) Breathing quick and shallow (frequently shows fear)

When you are at work, which of the above sensations do you feel? What emotions might become more evident to you? What small steps can you take this week to make your situation better?

I'm offering a 4-week tele-class, Should I Stay or Should I Go? that can help you to help you decide on your next step. Reduce the stress, take the class!