How to Cut Stress and Cool It at Work
By Sandy Schroeder
If stress at work is adding one more layer to your life right now, it may be time to cut through it and cool it.
Business Insider has come up with some ways to cut stress back at work and at home. See what you think.
Put Your Body First
Grabbing a bagel as you rush out the door and powering through the day on fast food can be a recipe for disaster. Create a clean slate to get the energy that you need. When you eat right, sleep well and exercise, it is much easier to resist stress.
Figure Out What Stresses You Out
When you know what bugs you, something can be done about it. Take a good look at your day and see where the stress points pop up. Everybody is different, but here are some typical snags. See if they fit and then add your own specifics.
- Deadline overloads
- Mixed directions
- Too many interruptions
- Routine frustrations
Flip the Switch
We all know that feeling when tension begins to build. The morning meeting is a disaster and a major project has developed snags. Before stress takes over, find a way to turn it around. A brisk walk, coffee with a favorite friend, or deep breathing may put stress in its place. Relaxed breathing may become your stress retreat. Find a quiet spot to sit and simply breathe. Take five deep breaths letting your belly come forward with each one. Imagine all of the stress leaving your body. Stand up, stretch and head back to work.
Smooth Out the Bumps
When stress builds, half-full coffee cups just seem to multiply. Keep your playing field clean and enjoy working in a clutter-free office. Do a sweep through at the end of each day to keep yourself organized. Knock off any routine tasks that are left and then close the door for the evening and head home to relax.
Create a 'No Toxic People' Zone
When you see a toxic person headed your way, run! All of that office gossip and negativity simply breeds more stress. Gravitate to the people who smile more and complain less.
Remember to Say Thank You
Work stress never completely goes away, but keeping your balance is easier when you look for the good stuff. Take a moment to think about your projects, skills and accomplishments and smile a little. That's what makes it all worth while.
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