Stress. The word alone is enough to cause anxiety, pressure and angst. Unfortunately, stress is part of the everyday business world, where results are demanded and devotion of time is expected. This may be the new normal, but at what are the cost?
Stress can be at the root of headaches, stomach problems, high blood pressure, chest pain and insomnia. An unbelievable 43 percent of adults experience adverse health effects due to stress. It even has been known to cause forgetfulness, indecision and social withdrawal- all very important to work accuracy and happiness. In order to be an engaged and productive employee, it is pivotal that your stress is kept at a manageable level and used to propel projects, not hinder them.
Check out these practical ways to combat stress and create a well-rounded, healthy work life:
- Increase Your Social Interactions
It’s said that, “Social contact is nature’s antidote to stress.” Those meaningful relationships we have with friends, family and significant others are important to our overall satisfaction. Having contact with co-workers in-person, instead of computer screens and distant voices on telephones, works wonders. Make spending time with friends and family outside of work a priority. It will create distance from the projects at the office, allowing you to come back each day well-rested and ready to approach problems with a clear head and new idea. Try to make meaningful connections within the office, too. That way, you can get feedback from someone you trust before bringing ideas to the whole team.
- Care for Your Physical Well-Being
Going for a run or taking a short walk can be magical for your mental state. Aerobic exercises in particular are great for your entire sense of well-being, including your mind. Many employers have on-campus gyms for this very reason. If cardio isn’t possible during your workday, take a moment to practice simple breathing exercises instead. A few quiet minutes of concentrated breathing can ease your stress and prepare you for facing a challenge with renewed energy. Sometimes these refreshing moments are all it takes to come up with great ideas or solutions.
- Eat Well
In this fast-paced world, what we eat has been known to take the back burner on our priority list. When we get stressed, our choices become even less calculated. What you put in your body is what you will get out of it in return. It can be hard and time-consuming to plan meals or cook at home, but a few hours on your weekend can mean days of a better-fueled brain. Think of a bag of fruit or vegetables instead of the candy bar or bag of chips. A healthy diet can lead to reduced stress overall and a greater sense of well-being.
- Get a Good Night’s Sleep
Stress can compromise the quality of sleep you receive, which can mean a tired body and mind which can lead to making more mistakes, which then leads to even more stress. It’s a vicious cycle, but one that is worth escaping. It’s recommended that adults aged 18-64 get between seven and nine hours of sleep each night to feel properly rested. However, everyone’s necessary amount differs. Enough sleep lets you maintain a good internal balance and makes it easier to manage and avoid stressful situations.
- Take a Break
Taking short breaks as you work helps ease the mind, clear up grogginess and ultimately can help you be more productive. Go on a short walk, eat a snack or enjoy a short coffee break with co-workers. Try these things when you need a breather in between projects.
Combating stress with these tips can help you have a healthier lifestyle at both work and home.
