Dealing with stress in the workplace
Some helpful hints
When you feel your stress levels rising, practise deep breathing for a few minutes to calm yourself and clear your head
If you cannot cope with the amount of work you have, learn to trust others to do the job and delegate to them. If you can't do this then prioritise and get rid of what must be done first. Avoid getting more stressed by leaving urgent work until the last moment.
Instead of taking a tea or coffee break, avoid stimulants and do something different like chatting with a friend or taking a quick stroll outside or within the building
Don't take your breaks or lunch break at your desk. Give yourself a break by leaving your workstation and get your mind and body away from the work you are doing.
If you are not getting on with your boss or work colleagues, get it out in the open before it can develop any further.
Make sure you're not in a work rut - doing the same tasks at the same time every day and going to the same restaurant on the same weekday. Do something different and unexpected without any prior planning.
Learn what you can change and what you can't.
Make your workspace as user-friendly as possible. P ay attention to lighting, air quality, and pleasing colours.
Tackle excess noise. Decide how much noise you're comfortable with and try to reduce or get rid of unwanted distractions.
Try to do some desk exercises to relieve stiff muscles and improve circulation.
Don't go hungry. Skipping meals in an effort to get more work done is counter-productive. Your energy will plummet and you won't be able to concentrate. If you can't have lunch, make sure you stop for small snacks throughout the day.
