Saturday, September 26, 2009

Is Workplace Stress Necessary?

By Charlie Frograrth

Since we all must work, workplace stress is pretty much unavoidable. Once at work you find many things to stress about. This stress is not totally necessary as it is possible to manage with the right tools. You man not be able to avoid stress but you can try to manage it.

Stress in the workplace often comes as a need for everything to be done immediately. For instance, your boss has given you a dozen things to do and they are all important. The problem arises when the workload exceeds the time available. In addition to the workload, someone is always asking for something you completed days ago or your boss is coming to you with more to do. It looks like it will never end but you can manage it.

Begin to manage the stress by focusing on one task at a time. If you attempt to multi-task you will not be successful as it causes you to constantly change your focus. This takes time and makes extra demands on your brain as you change your thoughts from one task to another and back. Maintaining your focus on a single project helps to keep your thoughts and energy concentrated instead of being scattered by multiple projects

Coworkers are one of the biggest distractions in the workplace. Others will invariably ask for your opinion or assistance with one of their projects. Find a way to fend off these time wasters so as to avoid loss of focus. If you learn to say "no" you can prevent many distractions. This can be highly effective but it may be a good idea to temper that a little like "No, not right now" or "After I'm done here". This can give you time to complete the task at hand. By the time you finish, they may have found their own solution, but if not then you won't be losing focus by helping them.

There are times when your concentration just disappears causing many difficulties. You end up staring at the computer screen without being able to figure out what it means or you read the same paragraph over and over without comprehending it. At times like this you aren't being effective so it is necessary to break your focus before you miss the deadline. Get up and take a walk around the building, go to the restroom, get a drink and when you come back to your desk, you will be refreshed and ready to continue. You will have reduced the stress level and will be able to work effectively.

Learn some desk exercises to reduce stress. Pick up a spongy ball and squeeze it or do some stretches while at your desk. Working your muscles improves circulation and helps keep you alert and aware. Of course, you aren't going to do a full body workout while sitting at your desk, but a little exercise can help to keep your mind focused.

Finally, take a look at your office to ensure it is comfortable for you. Are there a lot of distractions? Too much noise? Is your desk the correct height? Is everything ergonomically proper? Are you comfortable? In order to work effectively, you must be comfortable in order to avoid more stress. So, your office must be set up correctly for you. Addressing the little things in your office allows you to work more effectively, consistently and confidently.

Stress in the workplace is a part of working. But, with proper management, it is possible to minimize it. When you do that work becomes more pleasant and you end up being more productive. Take care of yourself and the area around you first and the stress will not control you. - 14130

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