Managing Stress in the Workplace
September 22, 2009 by admin
Workplace stress is a very common problem and most people have experienced it at some point in their working lives. Studies and surveys have been carried out in America that show that a quarter of employees see their jobs as the top stressor in their lives, and workplace stress problems are a higher cause of health complaints than any other kind of stress. This article will show you how to manage stress in the workplace to prevent it becoming a problem that could threaten your job.
Workplace stress can be split into two categories: external stress and internal stress.
External stress is caused by things outside of yourself which may sometimes be beyond your control. Loud factory noise, continual interruptions by co-workers or too many complaining customers are all examples of external stressors. All too often employees think these things are too trivial or beyond their control, and therefore do not do anything about them. However, you should not ignore anything that is causing you stress.
Identifying the cause of your stress is the first step in your ability to handle it. Even if a problem cannot be completely resolved, talking with someone about it in a calm way can help to make some changes in your environment that will improve the situation.
Internal stressors are more to do with your own feelings and perceptions. These may be feelings of inadequacy or dissatisfaction, or simply that you feel you are not properly rewarded for the work you do.
Again, ignoring this problem is the worst thing you can do as it will only increase and lead to greater stress and even health problems.
Examine why you feel stressed and look at what needs to change in order for you to feel more satisfied, or look at what you could do to improve your confidence. What needs to change?
Once you have ascertained this, you might want to talk it over with your boss or a fellow worker, as long as they are understanding and supportive.
Much workplace stress occurs because we have lost sight of why we wanted the job in the first place, or what its purpose is. Redefining these goals can help you to alter your perspective, perhaps set new goals and so reduce your stress.
It is also important that your work does not encroach on the rest of your life. You need to focus on work when you need to, but to let it go when you walk through your front door. Make plans for your free time so your mind will be taken completely off your work. This is essential for your mental wellbeing.
Make sure that you take all your allocated breaks. Working through lunch time is never good for your health, and very often you will get just as much work done if you take that break and re-charge your batteries.
Finally, try and cut down on coffee and other caffeinated drinks such as cola. While you may think they are keeping you on the go, they actually create more stress and de-hydration - which causes more tiredness. Drink lots of water or fresh fruit juices to keep you hydrated. You will find that this will keep you more alert in the long run.
Managing stress in the workplace is a combination of analysis, taking action, changing focus and developing a healthy lifestyle. Even if you are unable to cut down your work hours, there is much you can do to resolve problems and make adjustments that will reduce stress levels and improve your work performance.
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