5 ways to quickly recover from bad performance at work

Do you want to press the reset button and move on to success? The first step is to own the underperformance, even if you weren’t the sole cause of it. Once you take the responsibility for the current and past outcomes, your mind assumes control and can do an honest job of making an effective plan, sticking to it and dealing with contingencies.
Text: Devashish Chakravarty, ET Wealth

Do you have an idea of what you could have done better? Where can you improve in the future? What will you contribute to your team, and how will you make an impact within your role? Add to your answers by seeking input from your manager and colleagues. Process and use this list for your plan.

Make a list of what you want to achieve in the coming year. Convert that into specific measurables in behaviour and results. Put a deadline on each. Some of these are processes like spending two hours weekly to train junior colleagues. The rest are outcomes like getting a 20% increase in sales. Now, commit to the goals and timelines.

Start with baby steps. Make one or two small relevant changes in your approach, task list or daily routine and stick to that, one day at a time. Allow for three weeks for a habit to set in and for people to acknowledge and support the change in you. Then make the next change. Do not bite off too much at a time, or else you may simply choke and stop.

How will you know if your changes are in line with the employer’s expectations and needed improvement? How will you stay motivated and know that you are making progress? Changes are most effective when you have a feedback loop in place for course correction or encouragement. Enroll a friend, colleague or your boss for this.