Stress can happen to anyone. With long days, project deadlines, and high expectations, everyone is bound to feel strained at one point or another. What’s important is learning to manage it and prevent burnout. Successful stress reduction varies person to person, so here are some ideas to find what works for you.
- Get comfortable: Your workspace matters. Having the right setup where you spend most of your time every day is important. If you need a standing desk or monitor arms to help you feel more comfortable, make a case to your boss. If your office is always cold, bring a blanket from home. Focus on what’s fixable and will make you more comfortable.
- Do one thing at a time: Multitasking is a sure way to increase stress. Focusing on one task at a time can not only help reduce your mental stress, it can make you more effective and productive, lowering your stress further as you see your to-do list shorten.
- Curate your playlists: Whether it’s music for the drive home or a playlist to keep you energized at work, music has the power to reduce stress and increase focus.
- Avoid conflict: No one wants to deal with drama at the workplace. Keep everything professional and stress-free by avoiding gossip, not engaging in political or religious discussions, and keeping relationships friendly, professional, and platonic.
- Stay organized: Disorganization increases stress. Having a place for everything – from paperwork to in-progress projects – can increase your mental and emotional energy by not having to track things down. Keeping your work computer, desk, and file cabinets organized and clean can help save your sanity at work.
- Take breaks: It’s okay to step away from your desk or take a walk after a meeting. Getting some fresh air or taking a water break can keep stress levels low and improve mindfulness.
- Focus on clear communication: If you need to ask a question for clarification, ask. If you are unclear on expectations, get more information. People’s stress can increase when communication is absent or unclear, so make sure you get as much information on projects and expectations as possible.
Work stress can happen, but it doesn’t have to be a day-to-day struggle. Mindfully managing your stress at the office can help you enjoy your days more and increase the quality of your work output and work relationships.
If you’re looking for a change because your job seems to be high stress with no end in sight, get in touch today. We can help you find a position that might help you gain a little more peace of mind.