Long-term stress can take a huge toll on your body and lead to serious consequences. Every job is going to have pressure to some degree, but it’s up to you on how you handle it and manage your workdays. If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, try out some of these stress management techniques to help you relieve some stress:
Take time throughout the day to step back and clear your head.
Use your lunch break to do something for yourself and something that you enjoy. Whether that means going for a walk, having your favorite snack, or doing some stretching/breathing, take this time for you. Even when you’re not on your break, it’s okay to take 5 minutes in between tasks to look away from the computer and take some time for yourself. Especially if you’re feeling like you have a lot on your plate, work on one task at a time. After finishing each one, give your brain a couple of minutes to reset before jumping onto the next.
Stay organized.
Find the best way for you to keep track of your work, whether that be a written journal or an online calendar. Keep track of your short-term tasks and your long-term projects, as well as your short-term and long-term goals. Doing this will help you look at your work on a day-to-day basis and prevent you from feeling overwhelmed. The minute you lose organization, you will no longer feel in control of your work which could lead to high-stress moments later on.
Make sure you’re sleeping well and eating well.
A lack of sleep can contribute to tons of different problems, one of which is stress. Sometimes just making sure you are getting enough sleep can make a world of a difference. On top of that, make sure you’re feeding yourself with plenty of nutrients and enough to fuel your brain. With a proper sleep schedule and nutrition, you can ensure that your body is in the best shape possible.
Set your workspace up to be successful.
Even the items you keep on your desk while working can help you relieve stress. Some suggestions we have are:
Use these tips to encourage gratitude in the workplace.
- A salt lamp. Salt lamps produce negative ions, which are proven to enhance your mood, promote relaxation, balance energies in the room, and ultimately decrease stress.
- Plants. A 2010 study done in Sydney, Australia showed that when plants were added to the workplace, there was a 58% decrease in depression and a 37% reduction in anxiety. Even adding one or two plants to your desk can significantly reduce stress.
- Your pet. Keep your cat or dog in your lap for periods of time while working, if they fit! Having your furry friend nearby to pet and hold can help you feel much more relaxed.
- Music. Music can provide a quick pick-me-up or help you to relax and concentrate. If it’s possible for you to have music playing out loud or using headphones, you can find some free apps that target playlists to exactly what you are looking for.
- Aromatherapy. Scents can also make a big impact on your mood and ability to deal with stress. For increasing energy, use citrus essential oils and to help you destress, try lavender for a calming effect.
- A journal. Keeping a journal on your desk can be beneficial in various ways, especially as a stress management tool. When you feel stressed, write down your thoughts and frustrations on paper to relieve yourself of some stress.
How To Keep Your Motivation Strong
While mild stress is a normal thing, if you find that you’re severely stressed from being overworked or treated unfairly, talk to someone! Your mental health is always more important.
For more tips on all things job search and professional development, check out our Employee Tips or contact us at mglenny@franklinprofessionals.com
