For many corporate professionals, securing their dream job is the peak of their career. Or maybe you’ve finally got your foot in the door of a major firm. But in the modern world, promotions and progressions in the corporate world bring with them a life of high-rise buildings and skyscrapers.
All of a sudden, your ambitions are at war with your anxiety. You may be feeling guilty for considering turning down this position just because of the skyscraper office, but the potential of your career should not be jeopardised by your office building.
Corporate Triggers
Unfortunately, there are a multitude of triggers in skyscrapers that can affect those with acrophobia. While your coworkers are in awe of the view, you may be struggling against the constant triggers.
- Floor-to-ceiling windows: These offices “with a view” are to some people a luxury. But they can also serve as a relentless reminder of how high you are. Having the ‘best’ desk by the window could quickly become a draining distraction for you.
- Rooftop networking: Many of these offices will make use of their rooftop amenities through board meetings, networking events or even after-work drinks. The fear of missing out on these social aspects of corporate life can be more difficult to deal with than the initial phobia.
Navigating Disclosure
Disclosing a phobia in the workplace can feel very vulnerable, especially in a new job. But don’t think of it as a confession; frame it as a necessary adjustment to improve your quality of life and your work. Disclosing to your boss or contacting HR can be an easy solution to some difficult corporate triggers.
For most workplaces, anxiety-related conditions fall under “reasonable accommodations”, meaning there should be no problem in switching to a desk that doesn’t face the window. You don’t need to make a grand announcement. Keep it short and professional, such as, “I work best when my desk isn’t facing a direct view. Could I move to a more interior table?”.
If your office is aware of your acrophobia, they are much more likely to change social settings from the rooftop. You don’t have to be in a leadership or management role to influence the social aspects of your workplace. There’s no harm in simply suggesting another venue that won’t trigger you. After all, your colleagues can’t accommodate an issue they don’t know exists.
You don’t have to suffer in silence when there are solutions that could improve your exposure to constant triggers and daily stress.
How To Cope
Acclimatising to a skyscraper will take time, so be patient and take things slowly. You can’t expect yourself to be comfortable on the 30th floor from day one. Gentle, controlled exposure will help to get you used to the views and height without triggering a panic attack or severe reaction.
- If your desk cannot be moved away from the window, place tall plants or a monitor against the window that will block the window from your (peripheral) vision. Creating a false wall around your desk will stop the constant reminders that you are high up.
- Finding an anchor object can be an easy grounding exercise if you feel yourself focusing on the building’s height. If you’re in a meeting or situation that you can’t leave, focus on the clock on the wall or a mug on the table to distract yourself from the window’s view.
The High-Rise Life
Your success should not be limited by your phobia. Navigating a career in a corporate skyscraper may feel impossible, but overcoming your anxiety step-by-step is much more attainable than you might think.
Climbing the metaphorical corporate ladder is difficult enough, so let yourself progress without holding yourself back.
