The email inbox overflows, deadlines pile up, and the pressure to perform feels insurmountable. For many professionals, workplace anxiety has evolved from an occasional stressor to a persistent companion. Yet, some leaders and organisations seem to rise above the chaos, exuding calm even in the storm’s eye.
Take Mukul Harish Chopra, CHRO, Transaction Solutions International. His approach is simple yet transformative: cut out the noise, focus on the goal, and trust in the plan. “When you’re in a leadership role, your team looks to you for stability,” says Chopra. “If you show signs of turmoil, it can lead to the disintegration of the team.”
In high-pressure moments, Chopra clears away distractions—both physical and mental—allowing him to channel his energy where it’s needed most. His method demonstrates that managing workplace anxiety isn’t about avoiding stress but mastering how you respond to it.
“When you’re in a leadership role, your team looks to you for stability. If you show signs of turmoil, it can lead to the disintegration of the team.”
Mukul Harish Chopra, CHRO, Transaction Solutions International
Anil Mohanty, CPO, DN Group, believes that the way individuals respond to stress is deeply influenced by their temperament and upbringing. “Around 60 to 70 per cent of one’s ability to stay calm stems from innate temperament and life experiences,” he explains.
Those nurtured in environments that promote patience and self-control often handle stress better. However, individuals with more reactive temperaments can struggle when anxiety strikes.
“A supportive organisational culture not only reduces anxiety but also helps employees build resilience, enabling them to perform well under stress without burning out.”
Manika Awasthi, chief people officer, Compass Group India
Yet Mohanty is optimistic about the power of change. “About 30 to 40 per cent of our responses can be reshaped through conscious effort,” he shares. Techniques such as mindfulness, habit-building, and stress management provide a pathway for individuals to rewire their emotional responses. While temperament may set the stage, intentional practices can help individuals better weather the storms of workplace pressure.
Creating a culture of support
While individual resilience matters, an organisation’s environment plays a pivotal role in mitigating workplace anxiety. For Manika Awasthi, chief people officer, Compass Group India, the key lies in cultivating a culture that prioritises mental well-being.
“A supportive organisational culture not only reduces anxiety but also helps employees build resilience, enabling them to perform well under stress without burning out,” says Awasthi.
At Compass Group India, small yet impactful initiatives have become a cornerstone of their approach. The Zen Room at the Gurgaon headquarters offers employees a sanctuary to recharge, meditate, or simply step away from their desks. Additionally, the company’s Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) provides confidential counselling support, ensuring employees have access to professional guidance when needed.
“These initiatives normalise conversations about mental health and make support accessible,” explains Awasthi. “Even small steps, like practising mindfulness, can significantly alleviate anxiety.”
For Chopra, tackling workplace anxiety begins with identifying its root cause. “Simply understanding the core problem can relieve a significant amount of stress,” he advises. Once the problem is pinpointed, teamwork becomes the antidote. Collaborating with others to create a solution not only shares the load but also fosters a sense of collective responsibility.
“About 30 to 40 per cent of our responses can be reshaped through conscious effort.”
Anil Mohanty, CPO, DN Group
Chopra emphasises the importance of sticking to the plan. “As stress mounts, the temptation to second-guess yourself grows. But staying committed to the strategy ensures clarity and prevents anxiety from derailing progress.”
This structured approach—problem identification, collaboration, and focused execution—turns what feels overwhelming into manageable steps, empowering individuals and teams to tackle challenges head-on.
Compass Group India has expanded its stress management efforts with wellness initiatives designed to empower employees. Webinars on topics like anxiety management, sleep health, and resilience offer practical tools, while events such as Mental Health Day and International Yoga Day promote a culture of holistic well-being.
These efforts underscore the organisation’s belief that mental wellness isn’t just an individual’s responsibility but a shared priority that strengthens the entire workplace.
Workplace anxiety might be an inevitable companion in today’s fast-paced world, but it doesn’t have to dominate. Leaders such as Chopra demonstrate how focus and composure can ripple through teams, creating stability amid uncertainty. At the same time, organisations such as Compass Group India highlight the profound impact of structural support—be it mindfulness spaces, counselling programmes, or wellness training.
Ultimately, staying calm under pressure is an art and a skill—a blend of personal resilience and collective effort. By investing in these strategies, individuals and organisations alike can transform workplace anxiety from a source of stress into a foundation for strength and growth.
