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Thriving in the Workplace: Str...


Thriving in the Workplace: Strategies for Managing Stress and Maintaining Balance

Stress Management

Kirti Nair

March 17 , 2024

‘Stress’ is a common phenomenon present in all aspects of our lives. In today’s world, stress has a bit of a negative connotation to it. However, in the right amount, stress can be a driving force that enhances our functioning. This kind of stress is called eustress. But, when stress goes beyond certain levels and starts impairing our daily functioning, it is called distress.

Workplace is one of the most common areas where stress is seen to be most prevalent. Managing the work pressure, meeting unrealistic deadlines, dealing with multiple projects at a time, lack of support from coworkers and superiors, poor working conditions as well as financial difficulties can be the major causes for stress in the workplace. 

In order to cope with these life stressors, it is important to devise strategies for managing stress and maintaining balance in the workplace.

HOW TO MANAGE STRESS?

  1. Work life is a Nintendo game- Most workplace stress originates not from within, but because of external situations. In such events, all you can do is control your reaction or response to the situation, just as you can control the actions of only your character in a game. Understand that you cannot control the actions of others and remain calm.

  2. Work now, enjoy later- Always remember to prioritize your assignments so as to avoid last minute stress. Organize your workload according to the time and effort that goes into each of them. Finishing the most tedious tasks beforehand will give you lots of time to enjoy later.

  3. A problem shared is a problem halved- Sharing a problem and asking for help from loved ones can help ease the burden that one feels. This can not only help strengthen their bond but also help you discover various coping strategies to deal with your stress levels.

  4. A slice at a time, not the whole pie- Break large tasks into smaller ones makes it seem less hectic and thus will reduce the frustration and tension that one feels. It helps you focus one task at a time and gives you a sense of accomplishment after each small task.

  5. Competence builds confidence- Grab all the opportunities for skill development as this helps enhance your competence and confidence. This will help fuel your curiosity and reduce the stress that you face when assigned with new tasks.

  6. Doing two things at once, is doing neither- Multitasking should be avoided as it can add to a person’s physical and mental stress. Focusing on more than one thing at once results in an overload which leaves the person feeling dissatisfied at the end. 

HOW TO MAINTAIN BALANCE?

  1. Step back and get a snack- No matter how busy you are, always remember to take breaks between work in order to stabilize your mind. Coming back to a task after taking a breather will not only help you focus on the task but also help you look at it from different perspectives.

  2. Minds bloom in a clean room- Decluttering your room can also help in decluttering your mind. This will help you focus on the task by minimizing any distractions. 

  3. Be wise and socialize- Creating good bonds with coworkers and superiors is an essential skill in a workplace. Making good connections with them can help you openly communicate your concerns as well as make your work life more enjoyable.

  4. ‘Hard stop’, close the laptop- Defining specific working hours will help in separating your work-related tasks from your personal activities, thereby striking a perfect work-life balance. Understand that no work is more important than maintaining your peace of mind.

  5. Take a vacation, even if it’s a staycation- In order to rejuvenate your mind, body and spirit, it is important to take time off once in a while and recharge. Whether it involves traveling to far-off destinations or simply taking time off at home, the act of unwinding is essential for overall well-being and fulfillment.

  6. Say no and just go- Learn to say no to additional work commitments or social activities that may encroach on your personal time. It's important to recognize your limits and prioritize self-care in order to avoid burnout.

THINGS TO BE PRACTICED EVERYDAY:

Here are a few tips to be practiced daily in order to minimize stress in the general aspects of everyday life. These tips not only help de-stress, but also promote physical, mental and emotional healing and well-being of the individual.

  1. Take some time daily for your hobby- Engaging in hobbies provides an outlet for creative expression and enjoyment. It allows individuals to disconnect from work or other stressors and focus on activities they love. It also provides a break from tedious routine.

  2. Practice mindfulness- Mindfulness has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety by promoting a sense of calm and relaxation. It helps individuals cultivate awareness of their thoughts and emotions, allowing them to respond to stressors more effectively.

  3. Get regular exercise- Regular exercise not only improves physical health but also boosts mental and emotional well-being by releasing endorphins, the body's natural mood elevators. It also helps individuals better cope with stress by providing a healthy outlet for pent-up tension and frustration. 

  4. Get enough sleep- A well-rested mind works more efficiently than the one that is not rested. After a good nap, your mind works at its full potential with great clarity and helps you finish your tasks quickly. 

  5. Balanced diet- It is rightly said that “a healthy body houses a healthy mind”, hence, maintaining a nutritious and balanced diet is important to strengthen both the mind and the body. Having good energy reduces the chances of succumbing to stress.

In conclusion, stress is an inevitable aspect of life, but its management is crucial for maintaining overall well-being and productivity. In the workplace, strategies such as prioritising tasks, seeking support, and focusing on skill development can help alleviate stress and foster a balanced work life. Additionally, maintaining balance in everyday life involves practicing self-care habits like engaging in hobbies, mindfulness, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and maintaining a balanced diet. By incorporating these practices into their daily lives, individuals can minimise stress, promote healing, and cultivate resilience in navigating life's challenges. Ultimately, achieving a harmonious balance between work, personal life, and self-care is essential for leading a fulfilling and healthy lifestyle.

For compassionate and undivided support, talk to a mental health professional at Heart It Out today!

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