Benefits

Reduce your stress...

More than 75% of American workers consider their jobs stressful. While it’s nearly impossible to completely eliminate all workplace stress, you can learn to manage it effectively.

For many, common stressors include a heavy workload, intense pressure to perform at high levels, long hours, excessive travel, office politics and conflicts with coworkers. While dealing with stress is a reality of everyday life, the following early warning signs serve as red flags that your stress level may be getting out of hand:

• Insomnia
• Anxiety or depression
• Low morale
• Short temper
• Headache
• Stomach or back problems

Luckily, it’s possible to manage job stress by becoming aware of what increases or decreases your stress level. The following are some pointers to help you manage your stress at work:

      1. Plan and prioritize. Do not panic, make a list to prioritize your work, set realistic deadlines, do not rush into the first idea you have and always have an alternative plan.

      2. Focus on what you can control. You know what your job tasks are. Break the larger tasks into smaller, more manageable steps. 

      3. Slow down. Think things through before you act and begin with a result in mind.

     4. Limit interruptions. Use voicemail to your advantage and only take calls that are a priority when you are on a tight deadline. Set aside designated times throughout the day to respond to email and voicemails.

While workplace stress is common among workers throughout the year, as we approach the holiday season many people will be stressed for entirely different reasons. If you feel stressed, the obligations around holiday time can take their toll on even the most cheerful people. Here are some helpful tips to minimize holiday stress:

     1. Ask for assistance to host the family gathering together or make it a potluck meal.

     2. Make a to-do list in chronological order.

     3. Enjoy the present and try not to worry about what may be lacking.

     4. Stay active and continue to eat a balanced diet.

     5. Make time for yourself and your needs, even when hosting guests in your house.

     6. Keep tabs on your holiday spending. Make a budget and stick to it, no matter what!

     7. Learn how to say no. It is okay not to do everything.