Corporate. It’s a word that means many things to many people. It’s a part of the American culture. If you’re a working mom in the corporate world, it’s a part of you, too.
I’m sure you, like me, may have your buttons pushed every now and then. Over the last two weeks, I’ve had the buttons pushed repeatedly for various reasons. Rather than practice my own techniques of positive self-talk, using my corporate armor or simply walking away from it, I engaged.
Yep, I voiced my frustration in meetings. I vented in cube land with a co-worker. I went out for drinks after hours to “discuss” work. In all these instances, it was the same thing. Complaining.
Did I feel any better? Nope.
I felt more frazzled and less focused. I’ve allowed discontent to enter and let go of the positive possibilities.
There are things within the corporate environment that are simply out of my control. It’s my choice how I interact, react and function in the workplace. All the complaining, venting and resenting will not help the situation and may possibly increase the angst within others as a result. In the end, it’s not productive for the company or the employee.
Taking action when it comes to what is within my control is key. I can control:
- My attitude
- My reaction to things
- My interaction with other people in the office
- My focus on the things I choose do outside of the office (like spend time with my family and invest time in other hobbies)
- The positive influence I have on others in the office (instead of the opposite to this)
It’s not about practice makes perfect. It’s about practicing to build those “positive” muscles and knowing what I can do.
Now it’s time to focus on doing just that.
Stephanie Lema 
I really appreciate this post. I work in public education and it’s much the same…easy to fall prey to complaining but better in the long run if I can remember to act on those things within my control. Thanks for the reminder 🙂
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Thank you Jen! I was somewhat reluctant to post it at first, but thought, I can’t be the only one experiencing this! I’m so glad you found it helpful! Appreciate the comment 🙂
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I had to learn a few years back to walk away from the drama, walk away from the gossip. I do my work. I care about my work. I leave it at work. 🙂
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You are absolutely right… walking away is really the best thing to do. Love what you wrote about “leave it at work”. That is so important, especially when it can interfere with family time when you bring it home.
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