De-control your life

IT'S A bad day, nothing's going right and you are at your wits' end. Colleagues don't cooperate, bosses don't listen, clients bleat for attention, and you have fallen behind your KRAs (Key Result Areas). Amidst all the chaos, have you ever noticed how some of us have quirky habits that make us do things in a certain way, the `my way' syndrome? Even with the Sword of Damocles poised over your head, you remain unruffled and persist in doing something so mundane and unimportant (just to get `it' right or perfect) that it nearly drives others batty.

Nodding your head in agreement? You're obviously bitten by the bug of perfection. Here's what you should do to de-stress your colleagues!

Eyes wide open

It helps at times to notice the destruction you leave in your wake - harassed colleagues, distressed subordinates, stupefied and understandably distant superiors, and exhausted office helpers. They are probably knocked into a loop by your penchant for getting things right and ensuring that they stay that way.

While this sort of dedication and devotion is appreciable, avoid going overboard! In fact, some people even adjust or rearrange the `look' of a fellow colleague's workstation because they think it looks untidy! Now, that is certainly way overboard.

Let go

There are some things in life we can control. Our habits are one of them. There are others - circumstances, people and events over which we have no power. Perfectionists typically share a common penchant for achieving particularly difficult benchmarks but frequently force others to attempt the same. While some do it grudgingly, others may not cooperate so willingly. Therefore, control yourself from controlling! Let others do it their way. Volunteer only when you think the help will be welcome and appreciated.

Greying cells

Worry is a common syndrome of perfectionism. Perfectionists constantly tire themselves out worrying. They are the first people on earth to take a guilt trip at the drop of a hat! They take any lacunae in their performance personal; a poorly cut chilli does not ruin the curry! Who knows? It might just become the new benchmark! Know what right and what's wrong. Trivial matters are... wait for it... trivial! Don't make an issue of it!

Move on

After worrying so much, it's amazing how lethargic a perfectionist can get! He won't budge from a task unless an imaginary loose end has been gathered. Even if the sales report has been drafted and formatted as required, the perfectionist will probably call up the client to counter check the figures! Once a sales report fulfils the necessary criteria, close it! If you are a perfectionist, keep your activities to a strict time line! You may do less, but you'll do it better!

Just get the job done!

At the end of the day, what's important is whether the job has been done. Does your effort address the basic need that the job is meant to accomplish? Has the absent minded secretary typed the letter without an error? That's all that matters.

SAMYUKTA KODA

samyukta.hyd@cnkonline.com