With an average of 40 projects in hand per individual, it's not hard to see why so many business professionals feel stressed and overwhelmed at work. Today’s employees are expected to do more with less time, and finding the right balance to complete every task while still managing to feel energetic and fulfilled, under so many demands can be difficult.
Here are some simple strategies to reduce your stress, before it takes over your life or becomes unhealthy.
1. Take a deep breath
A stressful meeting or feeling overwhelmed with so much to do can affect your productivity and cause a peak in your current stress levels. While in frustration, instead of reacting immediately, cool down. Make sure you take a few minutes to clear your mind, deep breathing will help release the stress, calm your mind and body down, restore balance and regain your focus, allowing you to think your responses through more clearly. Remember to give your best in what you do, but don’t forget there’s always tomorrow. Getting upset for something left undone will only affect your self-confidence and motivation.
2. Eliminate interruptions
Phone calls, emails, instant messages, and pop-ins can make your day more stressful by taking away time that was dedicated to completing your most important tasks. Try to set distractions aside by assigning a time for those interruptions. For example, checking your email once or twice a day during specific hours, or setting up allocated meetings or windows to talk with colleagues in person.
3. Eat Right, Sleep well and Exercise
Health and wellbeing are important to keeping balance at work and in your daily life. Getting enough sleep, eating healthy and exercising a couple of times a week, are a great source of energy boost. People who keep this balance tend to have a better outlook of life and better mood which helps to handle stress.
4. Be organised and prioritise
Prepare a daily schedule, including main tasks and responsibilities in order of priority. Start with a to-do-list, to make sure you keep on track and be as efficient as possible with finishing your workload. Add tasks as required and set deadlines. Keeping your workspace tidy can also help you with feeling organised and in control.
5. Be realistic
Don’t take on larger workloads than what you can actually manage. It's hard to say no, but it can prevent unwanted stress and disappointment later. Learn to delegate and be honest on whether or not you can meet a deadline. A clear communication helps manage better expectations and leads to better final outcomes.