Scared of your boss?

Ever find yourself getting jittery at the mere thought of talking to your boss? Been there! I've had moments where my attempts to keep it casual ended up making me seem aloof or even rude.

For me, the anxiety usually comes from a fear of being judged or misunderstood, especially when power dynamics come into play. But I've picked up some tricks along the way to navigate through it:

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Be prepared: It's like gearing up for battle. Do your research, anticipate questions, and practise expressing yourself. Once you're armed with knowledge, the room suddenly feels a lot friendlier.

Seek backup: Don't hesitate to reach out to trusted colleagues or mentors for a pep talk. Sharing your worries with a buddy can really take the edge off.

Embrace the awkward: It's totally fine to show a bit of vulnerability. Being real fosters trust and helps you connect on a deeper level with others.

Tune in: Instead of getting stuck in anxiety mode, shift gears to active listening. Engaging in the conversation helps you understand expectations better.

Self-care: Keep those anxiety levels in check by prioritising self-care. Exercise, mindfulness, and a good work-life balance can work wonders.

Take a moment to mull over these strategies. Remember, communication is a two-way street and it's all part of the journey.