Yes, it’s perfectly normal to experience stress in the workplace. Only in a perfect, utopian world would employees be happy at work every minute of their eight hour shift. But, if you find yourself wanting to pull our your hair at work, there are things that you can do to reduce stress and increase your happiness in the workplace. Your mental and emotional health at work is one of the most important factors to your success, so don’t neglect it. So, what aspects of this stressful American work-life can you control?
Ask your manager and/or team for support when you need it. Many people tend to carry the weight of the world on their shoulders and have a hard time asking for help. However, asking for help is not a sign of weakness, it’s a sign of emotional intelligence and humility. Let others on your team with less work on their plate help pick up some of the slack, and be ready to return the favor in the future when your workload lightens. That is what a team is for after all!
Make sure you are getting enough rest at work and at home. Schedule breaks throughout your work day to clear your head, or even take a nap. Find a place to meditate or go to the gym on your lunch hour. Studies show that breaks actually help increase productivity. Take time to rest, so that you don’t feel exhausted and drained during the day. Breaks will help you become rejuvenated and ready to handle any potential stressors that come your way.
If you’re feeling stressed out at work, remember that you’re not alone and there are things you can do to improve the situation. If you don’t take care of yourself, schedule breaks, and ask for help, then your personal welfare will most likely suffer. Be proactive about finding ways to de-stress, and your happiness and ultimately performance at work will surely improve.