Managing Stress in the Workplace
Managing Stress in the Workplace
Anyone who has had a job has likely experienced workplace stress. Being overworked, underpaid, unsupported, or caught up in relational conflict can all lead to stress. And being stressed can have serious side effects. Mental pressure can cloud your thinking, lower your immune system, disrupt your sleep, and even lead to heart and metabolic problems. Follow these tips to manage workplace stress.
Identify Your Stress Triggers
Before you can manage your stress, you need to identify what triggers it. Speaking with a licensed therapist can help you figure out the underlying cause of your workplace stress. Another helpful tool is stress mapping. This technology uses various devices and phone applications to collect data about your stress levels.
Communicate Your Concerns
Talking to your manager and co-workers about your concerns is often the first step in stress management. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by your workload or a deadline, your peers may be able to help you shift responsibilities or provide insights on how to get the job done easier. If workplace drama or an uncomfortable employee interaction is causing your stress, you should discuss this with your manager or human resources department.
Practice Time Management
Sometimes it’s as simple as organizing your life. Use project management tools, make lists, or utilize a calendar or planner to prioritize your workload. When your mental to-do list finds its home on paper or in an application, it can put your mind at ease.
Nourish Your Body
Your body is like a machine. If it isn’t getting the proper fuel, it will malfunction. Poor diet and a lack of sleep will heighten your stress and make you unproductive. So eat a balanced diet, get a good night’s sleep and take nutritional supplements if needed. Additionally, exercise regularly to release endorphins and give your body the energy it needs.
Take a Break
Stepping away from your work gives your mind a reset. Set aside some time to take a walk, read a book, or even work on something else. You’ll be able to come back to your work with a fresh perspective and a calmer mindset.
Utilize Sensory Strategies
Sometimes certain sensory inputs (or even a lack of sensory input) can trigger stress. You can use simple sensory management tools to put these stressors to rest. For example, if noisy workplaces make it difficult for you to work, noise-canceling headphones can help with that stress trigger. Or if sitting still makes you feel anxious, using a standing desk may put you at ease. Other tools like stress balls, fidget toys, and aromatherapy can help you displace feelings of stress by activating calming sensory responses.
Practice Self Care
It has become a cliche in the modern world, but taking care of your physical, mental, and spiritual needs is important. Take a yoga class, meditate, get a massage, revamp your style — whatever makes you feel happy and refreshed. Doing these things isn’t selfish or lazy. If you take care of yourself, you’ll have an easier time managing your stress.
E3 Consulting Will Help You Manage Stress in the Workplace
Health and wellness are the bread and butter of E3 Consulting’s business philosophy. We believe that healthy, happy employees lead to successful corporations. Stress has negative impacts on wellness and productivity; a stressed workplace is an inefficient one. E3 provides an array of services to help you and your employees manage stress, from health and wellness consulting and training to ergonomic programs and stress mapping. Contact us today to learn more.
