Don't Let the Economy Bring You Down

Everyone is talking about the terrible economy. This is because they are worried about their money, and money is the reason we all have jobs. So it's only natural that you and your coworkers are obsessing over every little detail regarding the economy that trickles through your laptops, iPads, Droids, iPhones, earphones, the FedEx delivery man and of course Keith Wellington, the office gossip. "Did you hear that Germany bought Greece and is selling each of the Greek islands on eBay?" Speculation about the economy is inescapable, but it's also a huge waste of time--especially when you have a job to do on which your paycheck depends.

So be a professional and focus. In times of stress and chaos, concentrate on what you actually have control over, and let fate take care of what you can't influence. Participating in the collective gloom that can overtake rows of cubicles as employees feverishly check their 401(k)s can only lead to more gloom. Stay informed, but also realize the limitations and futility of worrying. Be a beacon of positivity in your office. Difficult times are when leaders emerge, so do your a career a favor by remaining stoic, supportive and productive, communicating to your peers and bosses that you are not a pawn to ephemeral hysteria and the cacophony of news cycles. Sure, there are problems, but deal with them in your levelheaded way.

Begin by limiting your access to the manic media that wants your attention. When online, only access work-relevant sites that will help you accomplish your responsibilities. Do not solicit conversations that aren't directly related to completing what you are paid to do. Sure, Bob Newman may be running his own stock exchange in the cubicle next to you as Wall Street prognostications jump around like kids in a moonbounce, but if Bob doesn't focus he may have even bigger financial problems. Take care of yourself by taking care of the business at hand, as in your job.

Image courtesy of zoonabar