09 Mar 5 Tips on How to Manage Stress at Work
By: Megan Jones
Work can be stressful to say the least. Although I have yet to work in a position or for a company that was completely stress free, the majority of your position should not cause you overwhelming stress. However, it is highly likely you will experience stress in your position. When you do know that it should and will pass and your job should not overwhelm you. But in the meantime when those stressful occurrences happen here are 5 tips on how to manage stress in at work.
Why is it important to Manage Stress?
Stress can induce anxiety and other physiological reactions that can inhibit your performance in your professional and personal life. If you body is in a constant state of stress, you may notice an increase in your anxious tendencies which can decrease your mental clarity and confidence in your job performance. Additionally, if you bring your work stress into your personal life you may never feel truly relaxed or that there is a separation from profession and personal activities.
Tips to Manage Stress
Take a Breath
Take a moment to take a deep breath. Focus on the breath and not on the stressor. Whether it is one breath or a few minute meditation take a few minutes to just focus on your breath. The reminder and control of breath can calm the anxiety you are feeling. Additionally, it will momentarily take you away from the stressor and can provide a few minutes of mental clarity.
Schedule Breaks
Breaks are equally as important as work. Taking a break allows you to come back with fresh eyes and see a clearer picture on your stressor. Moreover, this is a great opportunity to chat with a coworker, grab a snack, or go for a quick walk. Moreover, these are healthy habits that can boost your mood. Therefore, when you have to go back to the stressor, you are more likely to be in a better mental state.
Plan Your Day
Try planning your day so you are aware of deadlines and projects approaching. This is a great time to block out time for things that are a priority. Additionally, it leads to a day of certainty. When you plan your day ahead of time you know what you are scheduled to do and accomplish. Additionally, when you write these items down you are more likely to accomplish them.
Set Boundaries for Your Interruptions
Working on a project can be stressful enough, you do not need to be answering phone calls, emails or other pesky interruptions. Set boundaries, by putting your phone on do not disturb and turn off your notifications for emails. Furthermore, consider investing in sound proof headphones. Not only will this assist in blocking out sound but it also is a physical indictor that you listening to something or busy and cannot be bothered.
Sleep
Sleep is a really great way for the body to recover form a day of stress. Ensure you find time to wind down by, drinking a cup of tea, reading a book, or doing an evening meditation to wind down to a peaceful evening. Additionally, ensure your work phone and laptop are on silent so will not be disturbed or encouraged to check any late night messages. When it comes to your evening plans prioritize yourself first!
We wish you a wonderful de-stressed day and hope these techniques come in handy the next time you are feeling stressed!
