Help With Work Stress

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                                        WORKING AROUND STRESS

                                                    BY Tom Trace

Most of us are not independently wealthy.  That means that we need to work to make a living for our families. Most times, along with employment comes related stress.  Deadlines, employers, difficult co-workers and the list drones on.  Assignments and distractions can all make it tough NOT to stress out.  However, there several very easy ways you can help manage your frustrations.

On your way to work, listen to your favorite music. Or try no music at all. Clear your mind (but pay attention to what you are doing).  Breathe deeply.  If possible, don’t begin hashing out your day’s plan just yet.  You will have time for that when you arrive at the office.

Stretch at your desk.  If you are too self-conscious excuse yourself and stretch in the restroom.  Gently stretch your legs, arms, hands and neck.  Rub your temples and shoulders to increase blood circulation.  One upon a time the U.S. workforce was much more physical.  Bailing hay and plowing fields are tiring for sure. So is starring at a computer screen for eight hours and working against crazy deadlines. Just ask anyone who toils in a cubicle!!!

Diet.  This is critical.  Do your best to eat sensible meals.  Have a snack. We all know that a hungry employee is a grumpy employee.  Don’t let it get to that point.  Most employers will let you have a quick pre-lunch snack at your desk if it doesn’t affect your productivity.  Try raw veggies or a good ole apple.

Sit down and eat your lunch. Don’t eat at your desk.  Eat alone if you need to decompress.  It works.  Sometimes a bit of “me” time will do wonders instead of engaging in office gossip while trying to dine. Also, prepare your own low fat lunch if possible.  This will help your over all wellness.  Nutritionists will readily agree that it’s ok to treat yourself to a burger or big yummy slice of pizza from time to time.  Moderation is the KEY.

Walking.  If AT ALL possible use stairs or take a quick walk around the office preferably after lunch.  Try three to five minutes.  This will shake out the cobwebs.  Beware, anything longer than ten minutes will likely be negatively perceived.  Take the stairs instead of the elevator if available and you are physically able. You can do it.

Also, if you smoke you must quit. The only habit worse than soda consumption is smoking.  Do WHATEVER you can to stop smoking. Ditch the soda for water too.

Nicotine, caffeine and sugar all have negative impacts on our stress levels.

It’s no mystery that work can cause stress.  Maybe the notion of stretching, walking and eating healthy is stressful on its own! Sure, it takes work to make work more enjoyable. Embrace the concepts of change and you will be better off. Start with the aforementioned tips.  With a few simple, regular modifications to your daily routine you will soon feel less “wound up” at work.