Our work is a source of livelihood. It provides us with financial stability, social support,

and purpose. Just like it gives, it also takes from us– our energy, time and attention. At times the

give and take can get imbalanced, which contributes to the feelings of stress.

Employees become stressed at work for a number of different reasons. When it’s unclear

what is expected of their performance, there’s a lack of support, or work isn’t challenging or

engaging enough it can lead to stress. The workload may be overwhelming. There could be very

few opportunities to advance further, or pay could be insufficient. These situations often produce

feelings of hopelessness and a lack of motivation.

Managing work related stress is in your power! Being proactive and staying mindful of

when you need to take a break from managing employees, to manage your stress levels instead,

will only help you do your job better. Identifying and tracking your stressors helps to alleviate

them. Keep a note of what honestly stresses you the most and what you do in response. Being

aware of how you react in those situations can improve your coping mechanisms, and enforce

healthy habits.

Start the day with low stress by being prepared. Preparing to be on time and ready with

everything you need sets a stress free tone. Staying organized physically also helps to declutter

mentally. Establish boundaries between home and work life. Turning off the work phone to sit

down for dinner is an example of honoring that boundary. It’s important to take time off,

allowing your mind to reset. Relaxation techniques such as meditation, mindfulness, and deep

breathing train us to be calm in stressful situations.

Making connections with other employees is helpful because it’s comforting having

people to relate to. You can blow off steam with someone who understands what you’re

experiencing. Getting to know your co-workers can avoid conflict, because you will be able to

understand what makes them do certain things. Managing workplace conflict definitely dials

down stress, so practice your resolution skills and reframe negative thoughts to positive ones.

Employers can influence the entire team and should lead by example when dealing with

stress. Be sure to value your employees by offering health benefits, breaks and flexible

schedules. Encouraging healthy habits and physical activity will result in an organization of

happy, healthy workers.

Reference

Managing Stress in the Workplace: 12 Stress Management Tips for Managers. Indeed.

(n.d.). https://www.indeed.com/hire/c/info/managing-stress-at-work