Letter from the Editor

^{Alan Bernstein, SHRM-SCP Council Secretary, SHRM Florida State Council}

February 2026 Edition

In recent months, many of us have felt a steady undercurrent of stress that goes beyond our to-do lists and deadlines. Constant news cycles and strong opinions shared across every platform can weigh heavily on our mental and emotional well-being. These feelings don’t stay at home—they often show up at work, too.

As HR professionals, we sit at a unique crossroads. We are not here to take sides or debate issues, but we are here to care for people. One of the most effective ways to reduce anxiety during uncertain times is to refocus on what we can control. In the workplace, that means fostering stability, respect, and psychological safety—especially when the world outside feels unpredictable.

Encouraging respectful dialogue (and knowing when to pause it), reinforcing clear policies, and reminding employees of available support resources can go a long way. Sometimes reducing anxiety is as simple as normalizing it—letting employees know it’s okay to feel unsettled and that support is available. Flexibility, empathy, and consistent communication matter more than ever.

It’s also important to model healthy boundaries. Stepping away from constant news consumption, taking breaks, and encouraging time off aren’t signs of disengagement—they’re acts of resilience. When leaders and HR teams demonstrate balance and calm, it sets the tone for the entire organization.

While we may not be able to ease every concern or resolve every tension, we can create workplaces where people feel respected, heard, and supported. In times like these, that may be one of the most powerful contributions HR can make.

Thank you for the steady, often unseen work you do every day. Your leadership matters—especially now.

Warm regards,

Alan Bernstein, SHRM-SCP
Council Secretary, SHRM Florida State Council

Alan serves on the Executive Committee of SHRM Florida State Council as Council Secretary. He is a Board Member of LEAD Brevard, past president of the Space Coast Human Resources Association, and teaches the HR Certification preparation class for SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP at Eastern Florida State College. Additionally, he has been voted Best Consultant on the Space Coast, HR Florida Volunteer of the Year, and Melbourne Regional Chamber of Commerce Ambassador of the Year. Alan is active with his local community and provides free resume writing and job search seminars to local non-profits virtually and in-person.