5 ways to cut back on stress and negative language in the workplace

Negative language in the workplace can do a number on morale, and when employees are stressed, they’re even more likely to say something they’ll regret. But, with some emotional awareness and practice, this professional pitfall can be easily avoided.

Eighty-seven percent of employees said that, when stressed, they have used language they shouldn’t have, according to a recent survey from online language platform Preply. Another 40% said that when they’ve used this type of language, it has led to misunderstandings or conflicts with others in the workplace, and 67% said that exposure to this negativity has reduced their motivation. The survey found that industries where this behavior is most pervasive included industrial/manufacturing, hospitality, corporate and healthcare.

Keeping an eye out for red flags that indicate increased stress in others can help leaders and peers handle these situations with understanding. At the same time, knowing when you personally are dealing with additional strain that may impact your communication style is very important. A change in communication style, lower engagement level and uncommon procrastination can all be signs that someone is feeling additional strain in their lives. By simply being aware of a change in someone’s behavior, the opportunity to talk with them and offer support arises, says Johnson.

“When we’re stressed, we tend to over- or under-communicate,” she says. “If you can recognize that [another’s] behavior is being triggered by stress, then you can be more empathetic about it. Try to notice these things which are a little bit outside of yourself.”