Everyone who has ever held a job has, at some point, felt the pressure of work-related stress. People who experience excessive stress often deal with it in unhealthy ways, such as overeating, eating unhealthy foods, smoking cigarettes, or abusing drugs and alcohol. Yet you can take healthy steps to manage this work-related stress.
Here are 7 ways to manage your workday stress.
1. Exercise Working out is one of the best ways to relax your body and mind, and improve your mood. In order for exercise to pay off, you must do it often. Your goal should be 2 hours and 30 minutes a week with exercise like brisk walking, swimming laps, jogging, or playing a sport. Focus on setting fitness goals you can meet so you don’t give up. Most of all remember that doing any exercise is better than none at all.
2. Deep Breathing
Stop and take a few deep breaths to take the pressure off of you right away. You will be surprised how much better you will feel once you get good at it.
3. Eat well
Eating a well-balanced diet will help you feel better in general. It can also help control your mood. Your meals should be full of vegetables, fruit, whole grains, and lean protein for energy.
4. Slow Down
Life is so busy, and it is important to slow down and chill out. Take a look at the whole picture and find small ways to slow down.
Set your watch 5 to 10 minutes ahead. That way you’ll get places a little early and avoid the stress that goes with being late.
When you’re driving on the highway, switch to the slow lane so you can avoid road rage.
Break down big jobs into smaller ones. For example, don’t try to answer all 100 emails if you don’t have to -- just answer a few of them.
5. Make time for hobbies
You have to set aside time for yourself to do things that you enjoy. Every day for even 15-20 minutes, do something that makes you feel good and it will help relieve some stress. Relaxing hobbies like:
Reading
Knitting
Doing an art project
Playing golf
Watching a movie
Doing puzzles
Playing cards and board games
6. Talk about your problems
If things are bothering you, try to talk it out. Talking about what is bothering you or what is stressing you out can help lower your stress. Try talking you your family, your friends, your doctor, or even a therapist.
7. Go easy on yourself
Give yourself a break and set realistic expectations. Being a high achiever can make you feel good and help you shine at work, but that perfectionism can also create problems. Do your best and remember to congratulate yourself for all of the efforts, big or small.