Simple Ways to Manage Stress at Work

Written by: Thrishala Gunathunga

Photo by Freepik

Many people struggle with workplace stress. Tight deadlines, large workloads, or coworkers that are difficult to work with may all add to it. However, managing stress at work is important to maintain your mental health and professional success. Today, we will discuss a few simple ways to manage stress at work. 

• Sort out tasks based on their importance.

You must first sort out your tasks and choose the most important ones. The best method for doing this is to create a to-do list, which allows you to divide big workloads into smaller, more manageable ones. For example, if you have an important project due next week and need to answer emails, schedule time for both. Start the day with whatever is related to the project, and save time afterwards for answering emails. You can use digital planners, to-do lists, and daily notebooks to keep track of your progress. 

• Don’t forget to take breaks every now and then. 

Taking small breaks throughout the day allows you to recharge your mind and keep you from stress. For example, a 5-minute break with activities such as stretching, simple breathing, walking, or having a quick conversation with your coworker will help clear your mind. During the first two weeks or so of doing this, you won’t notice much difference, but with time, you will see an increase in productivity.

• Practice mindfulness activities. 

Try to engage in mindfulness practices at work. Simple activities such as breathing exercises, meditation, and focusing on the present can help manage stress. For example, one of the things I do is mindful breathing. This involves taking a deep breath in via your nose for 4 seconds, holding it for 4 seconds, then gently exhaling through your mouth for 4 seconds. I always go through this cycle for 1-2 minutes to reduce stress and improve concentration when I am working.

• Maintain a healthy work-life balance. 

Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is one of the most important ways to manage stress in everyday life. The problem is that we often carry our work home, which is a big no! Set clear working hours with your employer. You must also learn to kindly decline additional responsibilities given by your employer outside of normal working hours. Instead, create time to do things beyond your work, such as spending time with your loved ones, reading, drawing, or even going to the gym. You can then begin the next day on a bright note.

• Connect with your coworkers. 

Connecting with your coworkers will help you feel less stressed and enjoy your work more. You can also try to chat with them during breaks and work together on different tasks when needed. And if you are stuck on something at work, you can talk about it with someone and get new insights. You can also learn about their previous experiences managing similar types of problems. Some workplaces also offer incredible networking events, so if yours does, make sure you go!

• Reflect on yourself and ask for help if necessary. 

Reflect on yourself, particularly on the coping strategies that you use when you are stressed at the workplace. Doing this will help you to find something that works for you. It is also important that you practise self-care, which includes getting proper sleep, eating nutritious meals, and engaging in physical activity. And if this is too much for you to handle on your own, don’t be afraid to ask for help. You can talk to your supervisor, HR department, or a mental health expert, and they will offer you the appropriate resources for managing stress at the workplace. 

Conclusion

We have all experienced stressful work conditions at some point in our lives. However, there are many simple ways to create a good work environment, such as organising important tasks, taking small breaks, practising mindfulness, and connecting with coworkers. It may be difficult at first, but with patience, you can find what works best for you when it comes to managing stress at work. Happy working!