Feeling psychologically safe

Psychological safety refers to the belief that we will not be penalised or humiliated for speaking up with ideas, questions, concerns, or mistakes. In a psychologically safe environment, individuals feel able to take interpersonal risks, share their thoughts openly, and contribute without fear of negative consequences to their self-image, status, or career. Psychologically safe working environments promote personal resilience by encouraging discussions about personal challenges, prioritising self-care and maintaining a healthy work-life balance free from pressure or judgement.

You can take proactive steps to cultivate psychological safety in your working environment, enhancing your ability to manage stress and thrive professionally. The following steps are particularly important:

• Open communication: Encourage open communication channels with your colleagues and supervisors, where thoughts, concerns and ideas can be freely expressed without fear of judgement.

• Set boundaries: Maintain clear boundaries between your work and personal life to protect your wellbeing and prevent burnout. Clearly communicating these boundaries to your colleagues and supervisors will help establish mutual respect and understanding. 

• Seek support: Seek assistance from trusted colleagues, mentors, or mental health professionals if needed. Building a robust support network can offer reassurance and validation during challenging times. 

• Practice self-care: Make activities such as exercise, meditation, hobbies, and spending time with loved ones a priority. These practices support both physical and emotional wellbeing, fostering resilience and promoting psychological safety.

• Continuous learning: Adopt a growth mindset, viewing difficulties as opportunities for learning and growth. Commit to ongoing learning and skill development to build your confidence and adaptability when navigating challenges.

• Be a champion for change: Advocate for changes in the working environment that foster psychological safety, such as inclusive policies, supportive leadership, and opportunities for personal development.