The Four ‘P’s of Working Things Out at Work

I recently came across notes that Allison Attenello — brilliant leadership coach, trainer, and great friend — had written during the pandemic related to what tools women use to navigate tumultuous times. We were designing a workshop called “Working Women Working It Out,” which — at the time — was specific to the challenges women were facing in 2020, with the goal of uncovering ways to support them in getting through this period. The session was insightful, and consequently we discovered four themes as a group that still very much hold true today.

A fan of both rhyme and reason, when possible, the following four Ps emerged:

Power: How can we regain power and control that’s been lost or compromised?

Now more than ever, we see power plays in the workplace, and a question to ask within our own sphere of control is: how can we regain power when it has been lost or compromised? One suggestion I’d offer is to mobilize with a friend, colleague, or team; we often try to work issues out solo, yet others are likely going through the same thing, so engage with them to discover solutions. There is power in numbers.

Pace: How can we establish a sustainable pace, rhythm, and routine to our work? 

This is a tough one because phones are, by default, extensions to our heads now and available 24/7. We all need to factor in a break each day. Can you carve out 15 minutes of time for yourself? Start small; as James Clear always says, small habits make a big impact over time. Notice when you have the least energy and make that your regroup time. (Summer, which often creates a naturally slower pace at work for many, is a great time to prioritize slowing down and establishing new habits that we can carry into fall!) 

Permission: How can we redefine what we expect of ourselves and our colleagues?

This one is all about setting healthy boundaries. I talked about this concept in more detail here, which includes tips on how to set better boundaries for yourself and manage others’ expectations.

People: How can we stay connected to our colleagues, friends, and families?

With the workforce now split on wanting to go back to the office or hybrid or neither, one thing is for sure: people want to stay connected and re-engage with colleagues/peers/friends regardless. Some ways to do so: re-establish pre-pandemic routines, e.g. a morning coffee chat or mid-week gathering. Even a virtual weekly lunch could be great, especially if your colleagues are spread out across the country or globe. We all need face-to-face connection (not just text or email!), so where can you add a small window in your schedule to catch up with someone?

There is so much value in reflecting on what we’ve learned that we can take with us as the “new normal” continues to shift. Think back to some of the ways you found power in your work, established better routines and boundaries, and formed new connections over the past two years. Which new ways of working might you continue, and where might you discover some opportunities for adjustment? 

With joy,

Dr. Helen