I’m all Stressed Out

If you’re like me, each BI project feels like an adventure – what kind of business problems can I help solve? What will the design look like? Where can I find all the information the business is looking for? I get exited when I think about the new challenges and can’t wait to get started.

And then, I slowly come down to earth and start worrying about what it’s actually going to take to really deliver something of value. I begin to panic. Do we have enough time? Have we covered all the bases? Does the team have the right skills? Are we using the right technology? Is there enough money? With all these negative thoughts competing for my attention, my initial enthusiasm and sense of adventure slowly turns to caution and even trepidation.

Perhaps I’m exaggerating a little. But we’ve all been there. As the project progresses and deadlines hurtle past you at an alarming speed, you gradually lose your confidence. You start feeling anxious and procrastination becomes your new best friend. Your stress levels soar.

While stress isn’t something you can ignore, there are a few simple things you can do to regain your confidence and rekindle that sense of adventure.

Be Assertive. When our confidence levels are low, expressing an opinion can be very scary. You feel intimidated and may find it difficult to put together a solid argument or convince someone that something isn’t right. Be assertive (not aggressive) and discuss your concerns in an open and honest way. By keeping quiet the situation isn’t going to change and you’ll become resentful. Tackle issues head on and learn how to say no courteously and promptly.

Focus on the positive. If you start doubting yourself, take a moment to reflect on what you have been able to achieve. Don’t underestimate yourself. Make a note of all things you’ve accomplished so far and acknowledge your abilities and the contributions you’ve made to the project.

Manage your Time. When there just isn’t enough time in the day to do everything you’re supposed to, it’s hard to stay calm and focused. Poor time management can cause a lot of stress. Plan ahead and make sure you don’t over extend yourself.

“Good Enough” is Okay. Many people have a hard time letting go, especially in the IT industry. We want the design to be perfect and the data must be squeaky clean. If you spend all your time trying to be perfect, you won’t have any left to do what you’re supposed to. Unfortunately in our quest for perfection, we usually produce imperfect results. Learn to be okay with “good enough”

Take Bite Size Chunks. Look at all the things on the project plan that you still need to finish and break them into “bite sized” chunks. Pick the easiest chunk and focus on getting it done. You’ll feel a sense of accomplishment and you’ll give your confidence a boost.

Get Creative. One of the best ways to cope with stress is to get creative. If you find yourself staring into space and putting off tasks, take a break and do something you wouldn’t normally do. Go for a walk in the park, climb a tree, draw a picture, watch a movie or go to the art gallery. Laugh a little and just let your mind wander. Give yourself the time to “just be”.