Five tips to manage stress at the workplace

According to World Health Organisation, “Stress affects both the mind and the body. A little bit of stress is good and can help us perform daily activities. Too much stress can cause physical and mental health problems.” Stress is totally normal especially in the fast-paced and competitive corporate environment. If you work in Lagos, you may just be stressed out in traffic even before you begin your actual paid task for the day. Excessive stress can significantly decrease productivity, induce burnout, and even health problems. Here are five effective tips to help you manage work-related stress:

1. Manage your time effectively

Sometimes, work-related stress occurs when we fail to prioritise our to-dos and set realistic deadlines for each in the list. To effectively manage your time in order to reduce stress, create a to-do list and allocate timeframes for realisation. Write down all your tasks for the day or week and prioritizing them based on importance and urgency. This helps you visualize your workload and avoid feeling overwhelmed.

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2. Practice mindfulness and relaxation techniques

Before you start your day, dedicate a few minutes each day to practice mindful meditation. Focus on your breath and be present in the moment, let go of worries and stress. You can include meditation in your daily tasks each day and stick to it. Moreso, deep breathing is a simple yet effective technique to calm your mind and reduce stress. Inhale slowly and deeply, hold for a few seconds, and exhale slowly.

3. Positive mindset

Positive mindset is another tip that can reduce stress. Sometimes, what causes stress may not be the immediate work itself. Stress may be resulted from constantly overloading your weeks with a lot of work that the thought of it stresses you out. If you know you are capable of overtaking more work, do it with a happy mind and a positive mindset. That way, you stay stress-free.

4. Learn to speak up

Do not be afraid to express your concerns or ask for help when needed. Open communication at workplace can prevent misunderstandings and reduce stress. Pay attention to what others are saying and show that you’re engaged in the conversation. This can help build stronger relationships and reduce conflict which effectively reduces stress.

It’s okay to decline additional work if you’re already overwhelmed. Prioritizing your tasks and setting boundaries is essential for managing stress, too.

Also, a little chit-chat with colleagues and acquaintances can help reduce work-stress. Therefore, when you feel stressed, calm down, take a brisk walk to a colleague’s desk and have a little chit-chat that can take your mind away from work for a moment.

5. Take breaks and go on vacations

When you feel stressed at workplace, you can as well apply for a day’s leave to relax and unwind. Also, schedule regular vacations to escape the pressures of work and relax. Even a short getaway can do wonders for your mental and physical health.

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Remember, it is okay to talk to a trusted friend, family member, or mental health professional if you are struggling to cope with stress.