“Two-fifths (40%) of workers say that their jobs are very stressful, and more than one-fourth (26%) say they are ‘often burned out or stressed’ by their work.” – CDC
In a world that values success above all else in the workplace, it can be challenging to maintain the balance between a demanding career and your personal well-being. Though success can be a reflection of hard work, intelligence and drive, it often involves a great deal of stress. Everyday workplace stressors include long hours, excessive responsibility and external demands.
Ambition is an excellent attribute until it overwhelms the ability to maintain personal well-being. Unfortunately, it is often the most dedicated hard workers who are susceptible to overthinking, perfectionism and the inability to separate work from personal life.
Though stress is a standard component of life, prolonged amounts of stress can take a toll on your body. The American Psychological Association (APA) reports over one-third of adults (34%) report that their stress increased in the past year, while only 16% said their stress decreased. Research suggests this kind of strain may cause headaches, an upset stomach, high blood pressure, chest pain and insomnia. Research also shows that stress strongly affects a multitude of diseases.
“Seventy-five percent to 90% of all doctor’s office visits are for stress-related ailments and complaints.” -Web MD
Recognize the Problems
As one-fourth to one-third of employed Americans report high levels of stress in the workplace, it can become harder to recognize the problem at hand. A great place to start is spending a day conscious of what it is triggering responses of stress in your body. Once you identify the cause, it becomes easier to map out solutions and make the adjustments needed.
Make a Peaceful Work Environment
Maintaining a calm mentality is a crucial component of preventing stress at work, but did you know that a serene workspace can benefit you as well? Studies show that softer colors, natural lighting and clutter-free surfaces all contribute to an improved state of mind in the office. Putting your personal touch on the space can provide a sense of comfort amidst chaos. One of the most important ways to improve your environment at work is to limit noise, whether this means noise-proof headphones, a closed door or a soothing sound machine.
Make a Peaceful Work Environment
Maintaining a calm mentality is a crucial component of preventing stress at work, but did you know that a serene workspace can benefit you as well? Studies show that softer colors, natural lighting and clutter-free surfaces all contribute to an improved state of mind in the office. Putting your personal touch on the space can provide a sense of comfort amidst chaos. One of the most important ways to improve your environment at work is to limit noise, whether this means noise-proof headphones, a closed door or a soothing sound machine.
Place Limits
The courage to say no is essential when decreasing your stress levels in the workplace––even if it’s only to the voice in your head saying “Just one more proposal tonight, then I’ll call it a day.” Your body, though capable of many things, has its limits. Depriving the body of rest, relaxation, nutrition and sleep are just a few of the ways you can bring harm to yourself. This means there will come a time each day when you have to power down and step away from whatever piece of work is consuming your time. By pushing these boundaries daily, you are forming the habit of letting your work trickle into time that should be dedicated to your personal life and preventing your body from refueling your energy for the day to come. It is essential to listen to your body’s needs and limitations, whether that means putting your phone on do-not-disturb in the evening or leaving your work at your desk.
Reach Out
Humans, by nature, benefit from socialization and community, and with the number of employed Americans afflicted by stress, you don’t have to look far to find others suffering from similar stressors to your own. Taking time to focus on relationships and engage in discussion helps unpack many of the emotions of stress and worry from the mind. Whether you reach out to family, friends, co-workers or even counselors, communicating your feelings and stressors can help form a source of support in your life.
