Stress is an important dragon to slay – or at least tame – in your life.
–Marilu Henner
How’s your stress level at work? Would you say it’s occasional or fairly consistent?
The first step in handling stress is to be aware of it. Without awareness, stress is in control of you and not the other way around.
Do a simple assessment of the components below, rating your stress level for each as “Low”, “medium”, or “high”.
Job role/characteristics
Too demanding
Not what I thought it was going to be
Work Benefits/compensation
Difficult to get a promotion
Low compensation
Work Schedule
No flexibility
Creates conflict
Work Relationships
None
Conflict ridden
Boss Relationship
Not valued/skills not utilized
Minimal direction / recognition
How many did you rate “high”? We suggest addressing those first. Balance is the key to managing stress; consider what you can do differently to lower your stress levels.
Are you trying too hard? We often have a self-imposed need to compete that adds to our stress. We also don’t take time for the 3 R’s: Re-charge, re-energize, and relax!
Build in time each day for things you enjoy. (Music, exercise, reading, family time). While at work, stand, stretch, take a walk, and don’t procrastinate! Putting off tasks will only add to your stress.
THIS WEEK’S QWIKTIP!
Click here to read how to STAY COOL