How Do You Respond When You’re Under Pressure at Work?

Hi, I'm teacher Loren, and I know that staying calm and communicating effectively under pressure isn’t easy—stress can make even the most composed person feel overwhelmed. I’ve seen it as a teacher, as a mom, as a human... And after teaching Social-Emotional Education to teenagers and adults, I understand that you might wonder how emotionally intelligent people handle it. So, I’ve gathered some phrases, and I hope they can help you. Check out these 10 powerful phrases!

10 Emotionally Intelligent Phrases to Use at Work

Emotionally intelligent people know that staying composed and thoughtful in stressful situations can make a significant difference.

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Here are 10 phrases they use to navigate challenges gracefully:

1. "Let's focus on what we can control right now." This phrase helps direct attention to actionable steps rather than dwelling on uncontrollable factors.
   

2. "Help me understand your perspective." Demonstrating curiosity instead of judgment fosters a collaborative atmosphere.
   

3. "What do you think is the best approach?" Inviting input makes others feel valued and opens up fresh perspectives.
   

4. "What's our top priority?" This phrase encourages focusing on the most critical task amidst chaos.
   

5. "Let's break this down into smaller steps." Simplifying complex tasks reduces overwhelm and increases clarity.
   

6. "I appreciate your patience as we work through this." Acknowledging patience shows respect and fosters teamwork.
   

7. "How can I best support you?" Offering help shows empathy and proactive problem-solving.
   

8. "We'll figure this out together." Emphasizing collaboration can reduce anxiety and boost morale.
   

9. "I see this differently, but I'm curious about your view."Balancing honesty with openness to other perspectives demonstrates maturity.

   
   

10. "Let me reflect on that and get back to you."Taking a pause before responding thoughtfully prevents impulsive reactions.

    
    

Why Emotional Intelligence Matters at Work

Using emotionally intelligent phrases can diffuse tension, strengthen relationships, and help maintain a positive work environment. These phrases not only reflect composure but also promote a culture of understanding and collaboration.

Start Practicing Today

Incorporating these phrases into your daily interactions can transform how you handle pressure at work. Want to master more communication strategies? Follow our blog for insights on developing emotional intelligence and effective workplace communication!