Samantha Ruth Prabhu talks about going ‘through fire’ to get to where she is today: ‘I wouldn’t have it any other way’

Life can throw some serious curveballs at you. One minute you’re cruising along, and in the next, everything’s turned upside down. Take Samantha Ruth Prabhu, for instance. After her split from Naga Chaitanya, she revealed how she “went through fire to get here.”

In 2021, the couple announced their separation just days before their fifth wedding anniversary.  In a recent interview with Elle, the actor said, “We all wish we could change certain things about our lives, and I sometimes wonder if I needed to have gone through the things I have. But looking back, I wouldn’t have it any other way. I was discussing this with my friend a while back, and I always thought I didn’t want the last three years to have happened, but now I feel that you have to deal with whatever life throws at you.”

She continued, “And as long as you come out of it, you have won. I feel stronger and more rooted than ever. That’s because I went through fire to get here.”

But it’s not just celebs dealing with this stuff. Generally many of us are constantly juggling work and personal drama too. So how do you keep your job from falling apart when your personal life is in shambles? Or better yet, how can you turn those tough times into a career boost?

Neha Cadabam, senior psychologist and executive director at Cadabams Hospitals, tells indianexpress.com, “Divorce or other significant life events often trigger a rollercoaster of emotions — sadness, anger, anxiety, and even depression. These emotions can make it difficult to focus, concentrate, and be productive at work.”

It’s natural to be preoccupied with personal matters during a crisis, she adds. This can lead to forgetfulness, missed deadlines, and difficulty staying on task.

“Stress and emotional distress can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to fatigue, irritability, and difficulty performing at your best,” Cadabam states. 

Personal challenges can sometimes affect relationships with colleagues and managers. You might become more withdrawn or irritable, leading to misunderstandings or conflicts.

Effectively communicating with employers and colleagues

Cadabam says that you don’t have to share every detail of your personal life, but being open about the fact that you’re going through a tough time can help manage expectations and garner support.

Neha Cadabam, senior psychologist and executive director at Cadabams Hospitals, tells indianexpress.com, “Divorce or other significant life events often trigger a rollercoaster of emotions (Source: Freepik)

“Assure your employer and colleagues that you’re committed to your job and will strive to maintain your performance. It’s okay to decline social invitations or politely excuse yourself from conversations that might be emotionally draining,” she says. 

She continues, “If you need flexibility in your schedule or temporary adjustments to your workload, don’t hesitate to discuss these with your manager. If your workplace offers an employee assistance program (EAP), utilise it for counseling or resources to help you navigate the situation.”

Practical strategies for managing time and energy when going through major life transitions

Here are some steps Cadabam recommends you can take:

*Prioritise Tasks: Identify your most important tasks at work and focus your energy on those. Delegate or postpone less urgent matters if possible.

*Set Realistic Goals: Don’t try to maintain your usual pace if you’re feeling overwhelmed. Set smaller, achievable goals to avoid burnout.

*Take Breaks: Step away from work for short breaks to recharge and clear your head. Go for a walk, listen to music, or practice relaxation techniques.

*Practice Self-Care: Make time for activities that nourish your mind and body, such as exercise, counselling, healthy eating, spending time with loved ones, or pursuing hobbies.

Turning personal hardships into professional growth

Overcoming a major personal crisis can build resilience, Cadabam remarks, a valuable trait in the workplace. You’ll learn to adapt to challenges, bounce back from setbacks, and emerge stronger.

She stresses that going through difficult times can increase your empathy and compassion for others, making you a more understanding and supportive colleague. “Life transitions can shift your priorities and values, potentially leading to new career goals or a renewed sense of purpose in your work.”

Navigating a personal crisis often requires creative problem-solving and decision-making skills that can be applied in your professional life.

Successfully managing work responsibilities, she says, while dealing with personal challenges can boost your confidence and self-efficacy, making you more assertive and capable in the workplace.

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