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.
The need for everything to be done today is one cause of stress. For instance, your boss wants you to complete a stack of projects as soon as possible but then comes by looking for a project already turned in. Oh, and by the way, once you get that for him, he has another stack of projects to address. It looks like it will never end but with help, you can manage it.
The first step in avoiding the stress is to focus on one task at a time. Don't try to multi-task as that will lead to failure impacting your system. Changing focus between projects takes its toll on your brain as it takes time to change your thoughts from one project to the next. Maintaining focus on one project until completion conserves your energy and thoughts instead of spreading them among various tasks.
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.
At times, your concentration may just run out and this can cause all types of difficulties. You may find yourself rereading the same paragraph several times or staring at the same thing on the computer and still not know what you are reading. This means you are not being effective, your brain is shutting down yet the deadline is coming closer and closer and you must complete the project. At this point it is time to disengage. Get a drink, go to the bathroom, take a short walk, anything to clear your mind. When you do this, you are making sure you are working effectively and reducing stress to low levels.
Learn some desk exercises to reduce stress. Pick up a spongy ball and squeeze it or do some stretches while at your desk. Working your muscles improves circulation and helps keep you alert and aware. Of course, you aren't going to do a full body workout while sitting at your desk, but a little exercise can help to keep your mind focused.
If you take a look at your work space you may find that it is not comfortable for you. It may be noisy, or your desk may not be the proper height for you, or you may not be comfortable for other reasons. It may not be ergonomically correct. In order to work with as little distraction as possible you must be comfortable to avoid more stress. Having your office set up just right for you is the ticket. And addressing the little things in your office will assist you in working 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.
The need for everything to be done today is one cause of stress. For instance, your boss wants you to complete a stack of projects as soon as possible but then comes by looking for a project already turned in. Oh, and by the way, once you get that for him, he has another stack of projects to address. It looks like it will never end but with help, you can manage it.
The first step in avoiding the stress is to focus on one task at a time. Don't try to multi-task as that will lead to failure impacting your system. Changing focus between projects takes its toll on your brain as it takes time to change your thoughts from one project to the next. Maintaining focus on one project until completion conserves your energy and thoughts instead of spreading them among various tasks.
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.
At times, your concentration may just run out and this can cause all types of difficulties. You may find yourself rereading the same paragraph several times or staring at the same thing on the computer and still not know what you are reading. This means you are not being effective, your brain is shutting down yet the deadline is coming closer and closer and you must complete the project. At this point it is time to disengage. Get a drink, go to the bathroom, take a short walk, anything to clear your mind. When you do this, you are making sure you are working effectively and reducing stress to low levels.
Learn some desk exercises to reduce stress. Pick up a spongy ball and squeeze it or do some stretches while at your desk. Working your muscles improves circulation and helps keep you alert and aware. Of course, you aren't going to do a full body workout while sitting at your desk, but a little exercise can help to keep your mind focused.
If you take a look at your work space you may find that it is not comfortable for you. It may be noisy, or your desk may not be the proper height for you, or you may not be comfortable for other reasons. It may not be ergonomically correct. In order to work with as little distraction as possible you must be comfortable to avoid more stress. Having your office set up just right for you is the ticket. And addressing the little things in your office will assist you in working 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.
About the Author:
Author Charlie Frograrth has an interesting blog on Stress Management. Visit it at Managing Stress
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