It really is possible to work through some of the most dangerous and unpleasant feelings and emotions. As chefs we seem to be programed that this is somehow strong and all part of the journey as a chef.
What a load of ********
Its about pushing ourselves to the pinnacle of what we can achieve, its actually very different. Anxiety in the kitchen can only lead onto bad things. Whether that is drinking, depression or anger you most definitely wont be your best self and not the person you deserve to be.
The signs
- Quick breathing.
- Twitchy, uneasy, quick to become anxious or irritable.
- Not eating or drinking water.
- Paranoia. Am I doing OK? Am I in trouble? Is the food terrible?
- Shoulder or neck pain.
- More tired than you feel you should be – caused by excess worry.
Remember, anxiety is there for a reason. Its what our bodies do to tell us there is a problem. Avoiding it won’t help.
What could the anxiety be telling you?
- You are being too critical on yourself or putting too much pressure on yourself to succeed or be perfect.
- You’re being put under too much pressure with workload and/or expectations.
- You’re doing a role that is above what your experience is capable of (its happening more during this current chef shortage).
- You don’t have the needed support from above or below.
- You are in a hostile or bullying environment.
So you’re starting to understand how you feel and why.
What can you do?
- Learn to understand the message. Learn to make life and career decisions from these magical messages. Even if at the time you don’t like what the message is saying.
- Talk. Talk to whoever will be there for you. Friends and family
- If the kitchen has the right dynamics, talk to your boss. I hope this is an option. Its often the most beneficial
- Try to break the problems down. Little blocks are easier to fix. Just like mis en place.
- Lastly, if you’re in a hostile or bullying environment, get out. Get out now and deal with it from outside the situation. There is ALWAYS another option.
These are the solutions for when you feel in control. I have been at the point where it doesn’t feel like you’re in control anymore. You may feel like your feelings are out of control and there is nothing you can do.
If you feel like this there is help out there. See the help tabs on the top of our site. There is help out there. Fancy some advice, send us a message on the contact us tab.
Be safe everyone
Steve x