“Linda” was getting frustrated. She had just taken a day job with  a government agency, just to bring in some money while she waited for her dream job and investigated business opportunities.

But she found herself struggling to balance these competing challenges. She came home every evening feeling stressed. She couldn’t stop thinking about the events of the day even though she realized she was spinning wheels. “Who cares if my boss hates me?” she would say. “Who cares if we will implement Plan A or Plan B? But I find myself getting all worked up.”

Suggestions for Linda:

(1) Compartmentalize.

As you leave work, take a minute to visualize yourself stepping into a whole new world. When you get home, change your clothes. Think of taking off the uniform and becoming yourself again.

(2) Build your psychic shield.

When you enter the workplace imagine you have a shield that protects you from every negative influence. It sounds a little woo-woo, but it’s actually a psychologically sound technique of reframing. I discuss this technique in my Udemy course, The Great Career Escape. Use this link to get 50% off the listed price.

(3) Plan an activity for the end of the day where you engage with others. Schedule interviews, client calls, meetings or groups. When you sit alone at the computer, it’s harder to stop a busy mind.

(4) Create a topic that you can turn to as your mind starts to circle around the work problems. For instance,  think instead about your dog or cat, a trip you will take, your next career…anything for a distraction.

(5) Avoid getting too tired, hungry or thirsty. I’ve heard this tip by members of 12-step programs and it works here too. When your basic needs aren’t being met, it’s hard to stay on an even keel.

I also offer one-to-one coaching and consulting if you would like more support for this transition.