Stamp Out Office Stress
As papers pile up, voicemails accumulate and your email inbox continues to grow, it may seem impossible to escape the stress of feeling overwhelmed at work. And it’s not unusual. In fact, according to Princeton Survey Research Associates, 75 percent of employees believe the average worker has more on-the-job stress than a generation ago. And although sometimes the stress of finishing a project before deadline can improve focus and efficiency, ongoing work-related stress is unhealthy and can take its toll outside of the office.
By devising a plan to alleviate daily stress, and sticking to it, you can make a positive change in the way you feel when you arrive at your desk each morning. Keep in mind these suggestions:
Focus on your work
Focus on crucial tasks, taking them one at a time. If you can eliminate unnecessary tasks, do so. When you're feeling stressed at work, ask yourself, "What really needs to be done? How much can I do? What adjustments can I make?" Try to set aside personal distractions by writing them down, or try keeping a journal.
Take a time-out
When you start to feel stressed, set aside as little as 10 minutes to take a relaxed walk around the office or outside, have a cup of tea or just stretch at your desk. Or, reward yourself with a 10-minute break when you complete one big part or a project, or the entire thing. You’ll feel refreshed and ready to tackle your next agenda item.
Plan for tomorrow
Before you leave the office, clean up your desk, figure out what you need to do the next day, and try to prioritize the importance of each task. By getting organized the night before, you’ll be able to start each workday fresh and prepared.
Activate your sense of humor
Laughter can balance and offset negative changes in the body chemistry brought on by stress. Good humor also can put stressful events in a proper, less threatening perspective.
Spend time with supportive colleagues
Sometimes talking with a supportive co-worker can give you a real boost. Have lunch with a colleague, or meet a friend that works nearby for lunch so you have some time to clear your head and enjoy easy conversation.
Follow healthy habits
Getting regular exercise, eating nutritious meals and getting enough sleep will increase your energy levels and help you reduce daily stress.
Learning how to manage stress and stay healthy is important. American Red Cross health and safety training is a great way to learn more about keeping yourself and others safe and healthy, through first aid and CPR courses or emergency preparedness. For more information, contact your local chapter, visit www.redcross.org or call (800) 667-2968.
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