Whether you’re the personal assistant for a celebrity, or a web developer for a small business, stress comes with the territory of working. Though some levels of stress are natural and often motivate productivity, too much stress could result in poor productivity, a lowered morale, and more importantly declining health. The best solution, of course, is to find alternative means of dealing with these stressors before they impact your health and performance. Here are some of the most common stressors and solutions:
1. Overbearing Boss
One of the main reasons that employees become stressed out about their jobs is due to an overbearing boss. Employers or managers who are aggressive and unprofessional in their approach to communicating, disciplining or managing staff do more harm than good.
Solution: As an employee, you have a voice. Whether you go and talk with your boss directly, the human resources department, or your union, there are options available to you that could rely on to correct your boss’s actions and boost your morale.
2. Overworked
If you were to research the top reasons that employees get stressed out at work, the workload would certainly come into play. When companies are understaffed they tend to delegate tasks to skilled employees to pick up the slack. The only problem is, this can make it harder for you to complete your core responsibilities.
Solution: There are a few ways to deal with this stressor. First, would be to take frequent breaks. A trip to the office water dispenser for a refreshing drink and conversation with co-workers can make all the difference. Other options include asking others to assist you with tasks or really talking with your manager about the workload and potential of removing some of your responsibilities.
3. Uncomfortable Work Environment
You’re at work more than you’re at home. So, coming into a workspace where you don’t feel comfortable can be rather stressful. From poor office furniture to the lack of technological tools, an uncomfortable work environment can make it a lot harder for you to get through the day.
Solution: Put in a request for ergonomic furniture that can help keep you comfortable during the day as you complete your job. Also, bring some things in from home to make you feel more at ease. A nice plant, a lamp, and even a small radio can help the time pass faster and keep you comfortable as you complete your work.
4. Lack of Advancement Opportunities
Nothing can be more stressful than a dead-end job. When you’ve got the skills and abilities to do more but your employers aren’t willing to invest in your development or promote you, this can be stressful. It can lead to a lowered morale and slowed productivity.
Solution: While you may not be able to change the amount of advancement opportunities available in the workplace, you can do a few things. First, you can talk with human resources and let them know that you’re interested in advancing when opportunities come forward. They may be able to provide insight on educational courses and training you can take advantage of to get ahead. Secondly, you can start a side hustle which can fuel your passions as your job pays the bills.
5. Poor Work/Life Balance
When you’re constantly working and always stressed it can make it difficult for you to deal with your personal life. Long work days make it harder for you to be there when your kids need you most. While stressful days in the office often end up being taken out on your loved ones.
Solution: If you’re struggling with work/life balance, one effective solution is to learn how to effectively manage and save time. By reducing the amount of time you spend on stressful and tedious work the more time you have to spend doing things with those you love. If the demands of your work are too much, also consider talking with management for a solution.
Workplace stress is very real and if not properly dealt with, can result in the demise of your career and your health. Start taking the necessary steps towards reducing the amount of stress you encounter each day. In the event the stressors grow beyond your control, talking with human resources or management can often remedy the situation. Either way, the sooner you act, the sooner you’ll stop dreading Mondays and every other day in the office.
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