Too much stress can be detrimental to your health. Here’s how to deal with it properly.
Despite people’s best efforts, stress seems to be a common thread with most American workers. In fact, as many as 64 percent of all employees report high levels of stress, according to figures from Statista. This isn’t just bad for efficiency and productivity on the job, but stress can also impact your personal health. For instance, it has been proven to impede proper wound healing, raise your blood pressure and weaken your immune system. Luckily, there are ways to tackle the stress most of us experience during our daily schedules, and it involves establishing a proper work-life balance.
Here’s what you should focus on:
1. Try to unplug
So many people try and take their work home with them. However, working after hours is one of the leading causes of stress for people across many different industries. That’s why it’s important to unplug once you’re home. Leave the work emails for the next morning, and don’t bother answering any non-emergency calls. Having boundaries is essential to dealing with stress effectively and leaving time for family and any hobbies or activities you enjoy.
2. Plan ahead
According to The Muse, it’s important that you begin every work day with a plan. Take a few minutes to figure out the day’s schedule and what needs to be done. Tasks that aren’t priorities can be bumped back, letting you focus on what’s truly essential. It also helps to reach out to coworkers and share some of what you plan on tackling that day to help align everyone and figure out ways to prevent overload. Finally, your plan should include when you’re leaving for the day, and you should stick to it whenever possible.
3. Rely on colleagues
As mentioned above, your coworkers can play a role in how you plan and execute your day, no matter where you work. These people are also a great support system, especially since they know exactly what your job demands at any given time. These coworkers can not only help you out with various tasks, but they can help cope with stress. In turn, you can be there for them during a time of need, and that collaboration makes a strong and productive team or office.
4. Change your attitude
As The Guardian explained, a proper work-life balance isn’t just about changing how you work but shifting certain attitudes or perspectives. For instance, you need to learn to say no. Don’t feel as if you’re the only one who can do something at work; if you’re already feeling stressed, this is only going to worsen the problem. Similarly, don’t believe you have to be perfect in everything you do. That doesn’t mean not to try your best, but recognize that mistakes and other issues come up. This will be a huge weight off your shoulders and result in less stress overall.
For all your specialized wound care products, turn to Innovative Outcomes. The company delivers to both homes and long-term care facilities.
