Feeling Stressed at Work
Every job can be stressful. Stress can be brought on by an overbearing manager, a smothering workload, or even the office air conditioning breaking down. Whatever the reason for your workplace stress, we are here to help get you through it.
The Effects of Stress at Work
In some cases, it is believed that small amounts of pressure can lead to better work. However, when that pressure becomes real, chronic stress, chances are your work product and professional relationships (along with your personal life) will begin to take a hit.
In fact, one study found a direct link: employees dealing with high amounts of workplace stress were less productive and more likely to miss work. If this all sounds like you, don’t worry—we’ve all been there at some point! But when workplace stress begins to present as or exacerbate mental health issues, including substance abuse, or physical health concerns, it’s time to take a new approach.
Tips for Preventing Stress at Work
We cannot say this enough: taking care of yourself, mentally & physically, is crucial to reducing stress levels. Here are a few helpful and easy tips to prevent or ease your stress at work :
Set Clear Boundaries
A healthy work-life balance is crucial to preventing stress, burnout, and overall unhappiness. Make sure to sit with yourself and consider what boundaries you need to put in place to create the healthiest work-life balance for your own situation. Do you need to set clear work hours? Do you need to stop checking your email first thing in the morning? Decide on the boundaries you need to build to maintain a healthy work-life balance and commit to upholding them.
Talk to Somebody
We know it isn’t always easy, but talking to a friend, coworker, or especially a trained therapist can help you feel heard and supported. Sometimes, all you need to release stress in the present is to have your frustrations truly heard & validated in a safe space with somebody you trust. (And trust us when we say this, your feelings are so valid!)
Take Care of Yourself
As the saying goes, you can’t pour from an empty cup. If you aren’t taking care of your own health and happiness, you will not be able to provide others with support or help. Taking care of your mental and physical health will help you reduce your stress at work. Throughout your day, make sure to:
Take small breaks
Fuel your body with nutritious food
Drink more water
Get enough sleep
Move your body
Make time for the hobbies that bring you joy
Make time for the people (& pets!) who bring you joy
Get Organized
When deadlines are quickly approaching and you can’t find that document you need, or you have no idea where to begin in your workday, stress can be inevitable, and that’s okay! Just take a few moments out of your day to organize your brain by:
Writing down your to-do list
Organizing your day
Keeping your workspace organized
Taking breaks when you feel overwhelmed
Learning when to say no
Whether you are an entrepreneur, gig worker, or working a 9-5, everybody deals with workplace stress. Ensuring that you are taking care of yourself and maintaining a healthy work-life is crucial in reducing the chance of burnout and just living a happy, healthy life.