One of the most difficult forms of stress to avoid is workplace stress. You have to go to work and once there you run across many stressing situations. But stress is not totally necessary. As with other forms of stress, there are ways to manage the stress found in the workplace. And if you cannot avoid it, then try to manage it.
Workplace stress is often manifested by everything needing to be completed today. As an example, your boss has already given you dozens of things to do, each with equal importance. Of course, there isn’t enough time to do all of them justice. And in addition, your boss comes and asks about a report or project completed sometime ago and when you get that, here is more work to do. It appears never ending but it is manageable.
Begin to manage the stress by focusing on one task at a time. If you attempt to multi-task you will not be successful as it causes you to constantly change your focus. This takes time and makes extra demands on your brain as you change your thoughts from one task to another and back. Maintaining your focus on a single project helps to keep your thoughts and energy concentrated instead of being scattered by multiple projects
One of the biggest distractions is your coworkers. Someone is invariably asking for your opinion or time to help them with their projects. If possible, fend off these time wasters to prevent loss of focus. Learning to say “no” can prevent distractions. “No” can be highly effective though it may be better to say “No, not right now”, or “After I am done with this”. This may give you time to complete what you are doing. And by the time you finish, the coworker may have found a solution of their own, but if not, then you can easily help them.
Sometimes your concentration just runs out causing all types of difficulties. You find yourself reading that paragraph for the tenth time and still don’t know what it meant, or you have been staring at the computer screen for who know how long and still don’t know what it means. Your brain is shutting down and you are becoming ineffective yet the deadline looms. Now is the time to distract yourself by getting up to get a drink, go to the restroom or take a short walk around the building, anything to get your mind off the task for a minute or so. When you return to the project you will be more effective and have lowered the stress level.
There are various exercises you can do while at your desk to help in reducing stress. Get a little stress ball and squeeze it regularly and do some stretching exercises while at your desk. When you work your muscles it helps maintain circulation and keeps you alert and aware. You won’t manage a full body workout sitting at your desk, but any amount of exercise will help to keep you focused.
Lastly, examine your work environment to make sure it is comfortable for you. Is it too noisy? Is your desk the proper height? Are you comfortable? Is everything ergonomically correct? If you want to work without undue distraction you need to be comfortable to prevent more stress. Therefore, your work space needs to be set up just right for you. If you address the little things in your work space you will be able to work more consistently and confidently.
Stress in the workplace is a part of working. But, with proper management, it is possible to minimize it. When you do that work becomes more pleasant and you end up being more productive. Take care of yourself and the area around you first and the stress will not control you.
