The Tribune

Study after study and survey after survey tell the same story: workers feel stressed-out on the job, and the stress is taking a toll on their sleep, health, relationships, productivity and sense of well-being.

"We live in a culture that values business and stress. "Stress is a powerful currency”. The busier the more stressed you are, the more important and valuable you seem.

After scrambling to get the kids fed and off to school, dodging traffic and combating road rage, and gulping down coffee in lieu of a healthy breakfast, many people arrive to work already stressed. This makes them more reactive to stress in the workplace. Actually, you might be surprised by how affected by workplace stress you are after surviving or undergoing a very stressful morning.

Clear expectations

A factor known to contribute to job burnout is unclear requirements for employees. If you don’t know exactly what is expected of you, or if role keeps changing with little notice, you may become extremely stressed. However, it may help to have a talk with your supervisor, which surprisingly may relieve stress for both of you!

Avoid or Reduce Conflict

Interpersonal conflict takes a toll on the physical and emotional health, especially if it may be difficult to escape, therefore it’s a good idea to avoid it as much as you can.

Stay Organised

Even if you’re a naturally disorganized person, planning ahead to stay organized can greatly decrease stress at work.

Comfortable Work Environment

Another surprising stressor at work is physical discomfort, often related to where you perform most of your daily tasks (such as your desk). Even small things like office noise can be distracting and cause feelings of low-grade frustration. Do what you can to create a quiet, comfortable workspace.

Exercise

Many individuals feel the ill effects of leading a sedentary lifestyle but to combat the physical and mental effects of work stress, take a walk after work sometimes if your schedule permits.

Reward Yourself

Being a high achiever might make you feel good about yourself, but striving for perfection may create complications. You may not be able to do everything perfectly, every time especially on a busy, fast-paced job but a good strategy to avoid the perfectionism trap is always strive to do your best and make time to congratulate yourself on your efforts.

Music on the Drive

Listening to music offers many benefits and can be an effective way to relieve stress before, during, and after work.

Notably, considering these tips it may be reasonable to conclude that managers should be vigilant in trying to detect the signs of a stressed employee and meet with them to rectify the problem.

Encourage your team to take regular breaks, vacations and sick days, not taking on too many stressful chores at once, taking a break during work day, flexible work hours, limit overtime, discourage taking work home, not answering work calls or emails while at home, making time for things you enjoy, such as spending time with family, hobbies or sports, and relaxation techniques, or mindfulness.

As a final point, some of these approaches may not be applicable but find a balance that works and go for it. Until we meet again, fill your life with memories rather than regrets. Enjoy life and stay on top of your game.

NB: Columnist welcomes feedback at deedee21bastian@gmail.com

• Deidre M Bastian is a professionally-trained Graphic Designer/Brand Marketing Analyst, International Award-winning Author and Certified Life Coach.