Is Work Causing you to Stress?

If you’re feeling irritable at work, you can't sleep, you’re taking days off and you can't concentrate, chances are you’re suffering from work stress. The nature of work has gone through drastic changes over the last century and it’s still changing at whirlwind speed... and with change often comes stress!

What are the signs of work stress?
Typical symptoms of stress can be: insomnia; loss of mental concentration; anxiety; absenteeism; depression; substance abuse; extreme anger and frustration; family conflict; physical illness; headaches; and, stomach and back problems.

What can cause stress?
Some of the most obvious causes of workplace stress are: high demand for performance; job
insecurity; coping with technology; workplace culture; personal or family problems; and mental or physical harassment in the workplace.

The good news is, you can do something about it!

In today's biz climate, you need to be continually prepared for changes to avoid stress ...
SO:
o Find and protect whatever time you get to refresh, re-energise and re-motivate yourself.
o Be and feel happy by giving up negative mental behaviours such as fear, anger and revengeful
attitudes, which actually encourage stress. Instead try holistic relaxation such as meditation, breathing and exercises.
o Celebrate your own or your work mates accomplishments; however big or small!
o Re-evaluate your goals and prioritise them.
o Evaluate the demands placed on you and see how they fit in with your goals.
o Identify stressors in your life, such as work, or family. Get the support of your friends, family and even counselling to help reduce your stress.
o Ensure that you’re following a healthy lifestyle:
1. You’re getting enough sleep to keep your energy levels up
2. You’re eating a healthy, balanced diet
3. And try to recognise your spiritual needs - do you believe in what you are working for?
o Give yourself a break! Switch to another area within your organisation. If you come back later, you may find that you’ve started to enjoy the work again, and can take on only those commitments that you want. You may, however, find that you have absolutely no interest in continuing with what you’re doing. In which case, it may be best to drop it altogether.
o Exercise! Join a gym or get involved with a local sports team. If you’re feeling highly stressed and deeply de-motivated with your job or life - get into action today!

Adapted from an article at www.lifepositive.com