How to Manage Personal Issues While at Work
Managing personal issues while at work can be a difficult task. On the one hand, you want to keep your personal and professional life separate. But, on the other hand, there may be times when discussing personal problems with your coworkers or managers may benefit you. This blog post will explore different ways to manage personal issues at work.
Work is for Work
One of the most important things to remember when it comes to managing personal issues while at work is that context matters, and your workplace is a professional environment. This means that personal problems should generally not be discussed at work but instead dealt with during personal time. Some exceptions to this rule will be explored later in this blog.
There are several reasons why it’s important to keep personal issues out of the workplace. First, personal problems can be a distraction from work and prevent you from being productive. Second, personal problems can make coworkers uncomfortable and create an unpleasant work environment. Finally, discussing personal problems at work can be unprofessional and damage your reputation. Eventually, if sharing personal problems at work negatively impacts your or your coworkers’ productivity or performance, it may prompt management to take disciplinary action.
If you have a personal issue that you need to discuss with someone, it’s important to do this on your own time. If you need help, you can discuss the issue with a friend or family member outside of work, see a therapist or counselor to develop coping strategies, or call a hotline such as 211, which can connect you with resources related to whatever problem you might be experiencing.
Topics That Should Not Be Discussed at Work
Some topics should not be discussed at work, even if they are unrelated to personal issues. These topics can make your coworkers uncomfortable and can create a hostile work environment. Additionally, discussing these topics at work can damage your professional reputation. Some of the topics that should not be discussed at work include:
● Politics
● Religion
● Sex
● Money
● Personal
When to Discuss Personal Issues with Your Manager
There are exceptions when personal issues should be discussed with your manager, such as when these issues impact your work or are outlined in workplace policies. Discussing these issues with your manager can help you find a resolution and ensure that you follow policies and procedures. For more details, check out our blog, “Why, How, and When to Talk to Your Boss About Personal Problems.” Some of the personal issues that should be discussed with your manager include:
● Discrimination
● Harassment
● Health
● Mental Health
● Physical Health
● Childcare
● Eldercare
Conclusion
It is crucial to keep personal issues out of the workplace whenever possible. Personal issues are often a distraction from work. Discussing them can negatively impact productivity and relationships with other employees. When personal issues arise, it is best to consult with a professional outside of work or speak to your manager. With delicate topics, such as religion or politics, avoid discussing them at work altogether to prevent any conflict.
The workplace is for focusing on tasks related to the business and nothing more. By following these tips, you can keep your personal life separate from your professional one to ensure you are on the right track in your career.
