Stress. We all feel it at some point or the other. In fact, stress is so common in the US that 55% of Americans are stressed during the day, 20% higher than the world average of 35%!
Whether it’s the pressure of completing a project within a tight deadline or dealing with a challenging manager, workplace stress is inevitable. Certain industries are more stressful than others, but the key to being able to keep up with your demanding career is to learn how to manage the stress that comes with it. The last thing you want is for stress to affect your physical and mental health.
Since stress in the workplace is inevitable, the best way to handle it is not to give up but to learn how to effectively manage it. Luckily, there are many coping strategies for you to help take on those hard days with confidence and keep the stress at bay.
7 Coping Strategies for Dealing with Stress in the Workplace
Take a deep breath before you feel antsy. Here are simple ways of managing the effects of stress in the workplace.
1. Find your stressors
Understanding what causes you stress is the first step in helping you manage it. One of the best ways to do this is to journal or simply take note of what goes on in your day and how you reacted in that moment. When you look over your day and see your reactions, you will eventually be able to point out patterns and things that seem to be affecting you in a negative way. Once you identify those stressors, you can take control of how you manage the situation and reduce your stress.
2. Create and maintain boundaries
Boundaries are important to help you establish a balance between your work and personal life. You need to be able to switch off from your workday, especially if you are working from home. This could mean having a set schedule, unplugging from your email when you’re finished for the day, and even taking time to exercise and participate in social activities that bring joy to your life.
3. Stay organized
If you have important deadlines coming up, try to stay on top of your projects and organize your work ahead of time. Being organized will help you avoid rushing and feeling the pressure with deadlines looming. Try to keep a clean desk while you work to avoid clutter and other distractions. Being organized will help increase the efficiency with which you do your work, which further keeps you calm and positive as you work on completing important projects.
4. Take breaks when you can
No one expects you to be at your desk 24/7. In fact, sitting for long periods of time has proven to be unhealthy for your body. Allow yourself to take a walk during lunch or a little relaxing break from the screen every now and then. Additionally, use your vacation days and do something enjoyable on your weekends or while you’re off work.
5. Build a support system
Having a good support system that you trust is extremely beneficial during stressful times. Reach out to coworkers, friends, and family members and let them in on how you’re feeling. Talking to a loved one can help make you feel better and come out with some advice that can help you manage your work stress. Additionally, take advantage of company programs that provide assistance regarding work stress. If things get really rough, it could also be a good idea to reach out to a professional who can guide you through tough times.
6. Reach out to your manager
If things are getting tough at work, try talking to your mentor or supervisor. Your supervisor is there to help and wants you to succeed and may have insight or be able to help you come up with ways to manage your workload and navigate the situation. Make sure the conversation is productive and void of too many complaints as you are there to understand how you can manage your stress at work.
7. Find a healthy release
Whether it’s yoga, cardio, meditation or boxing, finding a healthy way to release your stress will truly boost your mood and help you relax after a stressful day. Avoid running towards unhealthy responses like alcohol and junk food that can often be a temporary distraction. Instead, focus on healthy ways that will calm you down and help your mood in the long run.
It’s normal to feel pressured or stressed every once in a while. However, it’s important to be able to manage these stressors and focus on how you can relax and manage your stress so that it doesn’t start to impact your life in a negative way.
Roth Staffing Companies has specialized business lines to help find you the right role in the industry you want to be in. From administrative, to finance & accounting, to technology or legal staffing, discover how our recruiters can help you take that next step in your career.
