Natalie Cohen
June 2, 2020

 A job loss can have a tremendous impact on our wellbeing. Even more so, experiencing a job loss amidst the Covid-19 pandemic brings its own set of unique challenges, as one is forced to navigate the upheaval in a time of unprecedented change and uncertainty. Research cites job loss as one of the top ten traumatic life experiences. So it’s no wonder you may be feeling less focused, less motivated, and less engaged during this time if you have recently experienced a redundancy.



The reality of our lives is that bad things can and often will happen. There will always be problems, setbacks or obstacles that we face as part of being human. One way to stay on track during tough times is to build our resilience and thus our ability to adapt more readily to the pressures of life more broadly.


Of course, this may be easier said than done. When we are experiencing stressful events, it’s quite normal for these events to begin to cloud our judgements. It’s easy to get stuck in negative thought patterns that threaten to keep us victims. As Brene Brown puts it, we “become addicted to our stories, endlessly looping them in our heads”. It’s no wonder that it can be very difficult to see things clearly in this state of rumination. We’ve effectively entered a state of stress, where thinking rationally and objectively becomes a struggle. The way we look at a situation can really impact our mood. It doesn’t change our behaviour in a positive way, it keeps us stuck in this loop, and ultimately, it overwhelms our psychological immune system.


Developing a more resilient mindset


One of the key factors of resilient people is how they transform past hurt, pain, and injustices in their lives. They learn to resist and rise above negative thoughts and feelings, that otherwise threaten to keep them stuck in the past. It’s important to note that being more resilient is not about enhancing your ‘tough guy or girl’ image. It’s quite the opposite, and it involves being flexible and being aware of methods you can use to learn and grow during crises.


Martin Seligman, a Professor of Psychology at the University of Pennsylvania, and author of Learned Optimism is considered the father of modern positive psychology. He notes that building a more resilient attitude is something that can be practised and learned. To do so, we must pay more attention to our internal dialogue and the way we explain good and bad events to ourselves. How we talk to ourselves about negative occurrences is critical to our ability to bounce back.


Our beliefs and explanations about the causes of events that occur to us are also key. The more resilient among us tend to see the causes of setbacks and adversity as temporary, specific to a situation and external, that is, a product of the outside world, and not of their own making – and thus they bounce back more quickly. Those that look at the causes of ‘failure’ as permanent, global and internal to them, however, may have a harder time coping with setbacks when they arise.


So how can we build more resilience in order to effectively adapt to the pressures and challenges of life, such as experiencing a job loss? The following four key tips and strategies may help you on your journey, and you are welcome to reach out to us to learn more.


1) Understand the power of your thoughts


The first step is learning how our thinking impacts our emotions and actions – by changing how we think we can change how we feel and act. We’ve recently put together a webinar to support this learning, and you can find out more here.


2) Practice challenging your beliefs


It’s important to take a critical look at our long-held beliefs and challenge them. This can involve adopting a more flexible mindset. When we ‘slip up’, it’s about being able to recognise that we are not perfect, and bringing some flexibility to the situation. How? By gently getting on track again with the things that matter. People who work on themselves to make positive changes in their lives practice this flexibility more regularly.


3) Become a skilled listener…of yourself


Another key to building resilience is starting to become more aware of our negative thought patterns – our internal dialogue or self-talk – and understanding that these states are temporary, so that we avoid becoming consumed or paralysed by them. Listening with compassion, curiosity and objectivity to our self-talk is beneficial. We can become skilled listeners to our self-talk, making our self-talk work for us, rather than against us.


4) Balance with the bright side


Developing an appreciation of things that are going well and noticing the positives in our lives is another important step on the path to building more resilience.

​


For more information on our Career Coaching and Career Transition services contact us on 1300 664 305 or email CMPIenquiries@chandlermacleod.com

Chandler Macleod joins Social Traders Image

Chandler Macleod Achieves Certification with Social Traders

By Kimberley Dawson • February 5, 2025
Chandler Macleod is a certified corporate member of Social Traders, reinforcing our commitment to ESG principles and social procurement. Learn how this partnership supports social enterprises and drives meaningful community impact.
Meet our School Crossing Superstars!

Meet our School Crossing Superstars!

January 21, 2025
Meet our School Crossing Superstars! Meet the people who value community, and learn why they think that being a School Crossing Supervisor is a fantastic opportunity!
Chandler Macleod achieves Platinum Status

Platinum Status Achieved on EcoVadis Sustainability Scorecard: A Milestone in Our Commitment to Sustainability

By Kimberley Dawson • January 16, 2025
Discover how RGF Staffing ANZ, including Chandler Macleod, achieved Platinum status on the EcoVadis Sustainability Scorecard, placing us in the top 1% of companies globally. Learn what this milestone means for our sustainability journey and commitment to responsible business practices.
2025 New Years Resolutions for Leaders

New Years Resolutions for Leaders in 2025

By Kimberley Dawson • December 19, 2024
Discover 7 actionable leadership resolutions to inspire growth, foster innovation, and drive organisational success. Learn tips on tackling tough conversations, leveraging psychometric tools, enhancing employee engagement, and more!
Image of woman shaking hands with male colleague at the beginning of an interview process

What Questions Should I Ask During an Interview? With Tips from Chandler Macleod Recruiters!

By Kimberley Dawson • December 19, 2024
Discover the top questions to ask during a job interview in Australia. Learn from expert recruiters how to make a lasting impression, evaluate company culture, and stand out as a candidate.
Woman in christmas hat looking sad because she is stressed at work

Thriving Through the Holidays: Prioritising Mental Wellbeing During the Christmas Peak with Tips from Karla Illingworth, Health, Safety and Wellbeing Advocate

By Karla Illingworth • December 6, 2024
Prioritise mental wellbeing this Christmas with tips to manage holiday stress, foster workplace support, and create a healthier, happier season. Special tips from Karla our Health and Safety Advisor.
Pre-employment program participant

Pre-Employment Programs, Changing Lives

By Kimberley Dawson • December 4, 2024
Discover how Chandler Macleod’s RISE programs empower women through tailored training, mentorship, and meaningful employment opportunities. Learn how we transform lives, foster diversity, and create lasting impact for participants and employers alike.
Chains symbolising the shackles of modern slavery and the need for awareness and action against it

Addressing Modern Slavery

October 18, 2024
The issue of modern slavery has gained significant attention worldwide, and Australia is no exception. As a recruitment agency dedicated to ethical practices , Chandler Macleod is proactive in our responsibility in combating this grave violation of human rights. Our active policies against modern slavery reflect our commitment to creating a fair and just workforce for all. What is Modern Slavery? Modern slavery encompasses a range of exploitative practices, including human trafficking, forced labour, and debt bondage. It affects millions of individuals globally, stripping them of their freedom and dignity. In Australia, it is estimated that tens of thousands of people are trapped in conditions of modern slavery, often hidden in plain sight in various industries, including agriculture, hospitality, and construction. Key Forms of Modern Slavery: Human Trafficking : The illegal movement of people, typically for forced labour or sexual exploitation. Forced Labour: Situations where individuals are coerced to work against their will, often under threats or deception. Debt Bondage: When a person is forced to work to pay off a debt, with conditions that often make it impossible to repay. Recognising the Signs of Modern Slavery Awareness is crucial in the fight against modern slavery. Here are some signs that may indicate the presence of modern slavery in the workplace: Lack of Freedom : Workers who cannot leave their jobs or are not free to make their own choices. Deceptive Recruitment Practices : Promises made during the hiring process that are not fulfilled, such as job roles, pay, or working conditions. Poor Working Conditions : Unsafe environments, excessive hours, and inadequate compensation. Isolation : Workers who are kept away from the public or their families, limiting their ability to seek help. Fear of Authority : Individuals who are afraid to speak out about their situation due to threats from employers or lack of legal rights. Why Prevention is Important Protecting Human Rights : Every individual deserves to work in an environment that respects their rights and dignity. By preventing modern slavery, we uphold fundamental human rights and promote social justice. Promoting Fair Labour Practices : Preventing exploitation ensures that all workers are treated fairly and receive the compensation they deserve. This fosters a more equitable labour market. Enhancing Business Reputation : Companies that actively combat modern slavery improve their brand image and attract ethically conscious consumers and clients. This not only benefits the business but also contributes to a more sustainable economy. Legal Compliance : Australia’s Modern Slavery Act 2018 requires businesses to report on how they mitigate the risk of modern slavery in their operations and supply chains. Non-compliance can lead to legal repercussions and damage to reputation. Our Commitment to Ethical Recruitment At Chandler Macleod, we take a proactive stance against modern slavery. Our policies include: Thorough Vetting Processes: We ensure that all employers and job placements are scrutinised for compliance with labour laws and ethical standards. Training and Awareness : Our staff receives regular training on identifying signs of modern slavery and understanding the legal framework surrounding it. Support for Workers : We provide resources and support for workers who may be at risk or have experienced exploitation, helping them access legal aid and counselling services. Transparency : We are committed to transparency in our operations, working to create an open dialogue about the importance of ethical practices in recruitment. Modern slavery is a pressing issue that requires collective action from all sectors of society, including recruitment agencies. By recognising the signs, understanding the importance of prevention, and actively implementing policies against modern slavery, we can contribute to a more just and equitable workforce. Together, we can make a significant impact in the fight against this human rights violation, ensuring that all individuals can work in dignity and safety.

The Importance of Identifying and Mitigating Workplace Psychosocial Hazards to Foster Psychological Safety

October 11, 2024
Organisations are becoming increasingly aware of the importance of creating not just physically safe workplaces, but also psychologically safe ones. One of the key aspects of achieving this is by identifying and mitigating workplace psychosocial hazards —factors that negatively affect employees’ mental health and well-being. As the modern workplace transforms, understanding and addressing these hazards is vital for building a supportive, productive, and healthy work environment. What are Workplace Psychosocial Hazards? Psychosocial hazards are aspects of work that have the potential to cause psychological harm. Unlike physical hazards, these risks are often tied to the emotional and mental challenges employees face in their work environment. Common psychosocial hazards include: High workloads and unrealistic deadlines When employees feel constantly overwhelmed, their stress levels skyrocket, leading to burnout and disengagement. Workplace bullying or harassment Toxic behaviours, including bullying and harassment , can lead to severe emotional distress, anxiety, and depression. Lack of support Employees who do not receive adequate managerial or peer support may feel isolated, which can compound feelings of stress or inadequacy. Unclear job roles or expectations Ambiguity in responsibilities can cause confusion and frustration, creating unnecessary pressure for employees. Poor work-life balance Long hours and an inability to manage work and personal responsibilities often result in chronic stress and diminished well-being. These hazards can significantly impact not only individual mental health but also overall workplace productivity, morale, and culture. Left unchecked, they can lead to high absenteeism, turnover, reduced engagement, and even workplace injuries. Why is Identifying Psychosocial Hazards Important? The first step in mitigating psychosocial hazards is to identify them. Just like any other risk in the workplace, being aware of potential hazards allows employers to proactively manage them. Effective identification often involves: 1. Regular assessments and surveys Use employee feedback to understand their stressors, workload concerns, or interpersonal challenges. 2. Open communication channels Encouraging employees to speak up about any issues they face helps in identifying hazards before they escalate. 3. Training and awareness Equipping managers and employees with the skills to recognise the signs of psychosocial risks is essential to early intervention. When psychosocial hazards go unnoticed or ignored, they create a breeding ground for mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and burnout. Identifying these hazards early not only reduces risks but also signals to employees that their well-being is a priority. Mitigating Psychosocial Hazards: A Key to Psychological Safety Once hazards are identified, the focus shifts to mitigation—putting measures in place to address and reduce these risks. Mitigating psychosocial hazards is not just about removing negative influences; it’s about fostering an environment where employees feel psychologically safe. Psychological safety refers to the belief that one can express ideas, concerns, or mistakes without fear of negative consequences. In workplaces where psychological safety is present, employees feel valued, supported, and empowered to be themselves. To create this, employers can: Promote a positive workplace culture Encourage respect, inclusivity, and open dialogue. A healthy culture discourages toxic behaviours like bullying and harassment. Ensure manageable workloads Review workloads regularly to ensure they are realistic and achievable, helping to reduce unnecessary stress. Provide adequate support and resources Make sure employees have access to mental health resources, coaching, and managerial support when needed. Clarify roles and responsibilities Clearly define job roles and expectations, reducing confusion and creating a structured environment where employees understand their contribution. Encourage work-life balance Promote flexible working arrangements and discourage overworking, allowing employees to maintain a healthy balance between their personal and professional lives. Mitigating psychosocial hazards is an ongoing process. Regular assessments, adjustments in policies, and creating a culture of continuous support are essential components of maintaining psychological safety. The Benefits of Psychological Safety When organisations successfully identify and mitigate psychosocial hazards, the rewards are significant: Improved mental health Employees experience lower stress levels, better emotional well-being, and reduced risk of burnout. Increased engagement and productivity When people feel safe and supported, they are more motivated and engaged, leading to higher levels of productivity and innovation. Higher employee retention A workplace that values mental health and safety fosters loyalty, reducing turnover and creating a more stable team. Better overall workplace culture Creating an environment that prioritises psychological safety builds trust, cooperation, and collaboration, enhancing the overall work experience. Workplace psychosocial hazards are a growing concern in the modern business landscape. Identifying and mitigating these risks is crucial for promoting psychological safety and ensuring a healthy, supportive work environment. When employers actively address psychosocial hazards, they not only meet their legal and moral obligations but also create a space where employees can thrive, driving organizational success. Investing in programs that help identify and manage psychosocial risks is key to building a resilient, productive workforce and maintaining long-term workplace well-being. If you need support in identifying and mitigating psychosocial hazards in your workplace, we’re here to help. Our compliance training programs on Workplace Psychosocial Hazards and Psychological Safety in the Workplace are designed to equip your team with the knowledge and skills to create a safe, supportive, and mentally healthy work environment. Get in touch today to learn how our comprehensive training can help your organisation foster psychological safety and meet compliance obligations. 
The Rise of Pop Psychology and Therapy Speak in the Workplace

The Rise of Pop Psychology and Therapy Speak in the Workplace

October 1, 2024
In recent years, pop psychology and therapy speak have permeated casual conversation, social media, and workplace culture, reshaping how we communicate and address mental health. Terms like 'emotional intelligence’, 'boundaries’, ‘trauma', and ‘trigger warning' have become commonplace, often used without a full understanding of their implications. While these concepts can foster greater awareness and empathy among teams, their casual application—including using labels like 'narcissist', 'OCD', or 'psychopath' —can lead to misunderstanding and stigmatisation, oversimplifying complex psychological issues. This article examines the multifaceted impact of pop psychology on workplace dynamics, highlighting both its potential benefits and the risks associated with misusing language that describes genuine psychological challenges. The Allure of Therapy Speak There’s no denying the allure of therapy speak in today’s workplace. Who wouldn’t want to feel empowered by terms that validate our emotional experiences? Buzzwords like 'emotional intelligence', 'boundaries', and 'trigger warnings' can spark vital discussions about mental health and team dynamics. For instance, talking about 'emotional intelligence' can enhance collaboration and understanding among colleagues. However, when we use these terms without context or accuracy, we risk diluting their meanings. Take the phrase "I’m so OCD" that people often use to describe being picky about something trivial. This casual misuse overlooks the real complexities of a diagnosis of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and can contribute to misunderstanding and stigma around the condition. Instead of facilitating open dialogue, such phrases can create barriers, where meaningful conversations about mental health are overshadowed by the fear of mislabeling or misunderstanding. Navigating the nuances of pop psychology requires us to foster an environment that encourages authentic conversations while being mindful of our language. By aiming for accuracy and context, we can ensure that discussions about mental health remain impactful and constructive, ultimately enriching workplace culture and team dynamics. Is My Boss a Psychopath? Let’s dive into a more provocative area: the casual labeling of colleagues. Ever heard someone exclaim, “My manager is such a psychopath” while describing a particularly ruthless decision? While it might make for a catchy headline, let’s take a moment to reflect. According to research, only about 1% of the general population is diagnosed with psychopathy. Most of us have encountered challenging personalities and while many of these traits may be consistent with those of someone with psychopathy, there is long way from that to jumping to clinical conclusions. Using psychological labels casually not only risks misunderstanding but can also stigmatise legitimate mental health conditions. Labeling someone as a 'narcissist' or a 'psychopath' can undermine the seriousness of these diagnoses and the individuals who truly live with them. It’s crucial to remember that while some traits might be problematic, they do not necessarily indicate a clinical disorder. The Problem with Oversimplification Another concern is the oversimplification of complex psychological concepts. Therapy speak often simplifies nuanced human behaviors into catchy phrases, which can lead to misunderstandings. For example, while 'emotional labor' is a legitimate concept that describes the effort put into managing feelings in the workplace, it can be misused to dismiss legitimate concerns about workload or job expectations. When we say someone is engaging in 'emotional labor', are we acknowledging their effort, or are we using it as a catch-all excuse to overlook systemic issues in the workplace? By reducing rich psychological discussions to buzzwords, we risk losing the depth and complexity of human experience. Finding the Balance So, how can we strike a balance between fostering a culture of awareness and avoiding the pitfalls of pop psychology? Here are a few strategies: Educate and Train: Organisations should provide training on mental health and emotional intelligence, ensuring that employees understand the terms being used and can engage in meaningful conversations. Promote Authentic Conversations: Encourage open discussions about feelings and workplace dynamics without the need for jargon. Authenticity often resonates more than trendy terminology. Encourage Professional Support: Remind employees that while it’s great to discuss mental health, professional help should be sought for serious issues. Destigmatising therapy and counseling can empower individuals to take the necessary steps for their well-being. Be Mindful of Language: Encourage the use of clear, precise language rather than buzzwords. If someone is struggling with a particular issue, help them articulate it without resorting to labels that may misrepresent their situation. Mind the Gap The rise of pop psychology and therapy speak in the workplace has undoubtedly opened doors for discussing mental health, but it also presents challenges that we must navigate thoughtfully. As we embrace these concepts, let’s do so with a critical eye, ensuring we foster understanding rather than confusion. Ultimately, it’s about creating a work environment where people feel safe to express their thoughts and emotions without the fear of being misunderstood. After all, the goal isn’t just to be on trend; it’s to truly support each other in the complexities of our professional lives. So, the next time you hear a buzzword or label floating around the office, pause and ask yourself: are we facilitating understanding, or are we simply adding to the noise?  Reach out to Chandler Macleod today to learn how we can support your leaders and workforce to develop emotional intelligence and cultivate a more inclusive and dynamic environment . Together, we can transform your workplace into a space where authentic conversations thrive, and every team member feels valued. Contact us to start your journey toward a healthier, more collaborative workplace.
More Posts
Share by: