Is Workplace Stress Necessary?
Since we all must work, workplace stress is pretty much unavoidable. Once at work you find many things to stress about. This stress is not totally necessary as it is possible to manage with the right tools. You man not be able to avoid stress but you can try to manage it.
Stress in the workplace often comes as a need for everything to be done immediately. For instance, your boss has given you a dozen things to do and they are all important. The problem arises when the workload exceeds the time available. In addition to the workload, someone is always asking for something you completed days ago or your boss is coming to you with more to do. It looks like it will never end but you can manage it.
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
Coworkers are one of the biggest distractions in the workplace. Others will invariably ask for your opinion or assistance with one of their projects. Find a way to fend off these time wasters so as to avoid loss of focus. If you learn to say “no” you can prevent many distractions. This can be highly effective but it may be a good idea to temper that a little like “No, not right now” or “After I’m done here”. This can give you time to complete the task at hand. By the time you finish, they may have found their own solution, but if not then you won’t be losing focus by helping 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.
Desk exercises are also helpful in reducing stress. One of those spongy stress balls that you squeeze is helpful, as are stretches done at your desk. Working the muscles helps with circulation, keeping you aware and alert. Needless to say, you aren’t going to manage a full body workout at your desk, but even a little exercise can allow you to maintain focus.
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 cannot be avoided. But, proper management can minimize the stress. When the stress is managed properly, work becomes more enjoyable and you end up being more productive. Taking care of yourself and your work environment first prevents stress from controlling you.