7 Ways to Reduce Your Stress in the Workplace

Unfortunately, stress has become the norm in many workplaces. Employees are expected to do more with less resources. Others do not have job security due to downsizing and layoffs, while others are caught between the demands of balancing work and family schedules.

For many, quitting their jobs or changing careers is just not a reasonable option. As a result, it is important to learn some simple tips that can help to reduce stress in the workplace.

So what can you do to reduce the stress you face at work every day?

• Act Happy – Even if you are not happy with being at work or dealing with the situation that has arisen, act happy. Simply acting happy can go a long way in helping you feel happy.

• Keep Your Emotions Under Control – This is related to the first point, but also involves not letting your co-workers see that your are feeling frazzled. You may need to step away for a minute or two to take a few deep breaths and recompose yourself. By staying in control, you keep others from feeling your stress, which just makes the situation worse.

• Get to Know Your Co-workers/Management Better – Being familiar with the lives of others you work with, can improve the comradery and teamwork of a work setting. Instead of feeling like you are alone, you develop a sense of belonging and caring for others you work with.

• Stop Blaming Others – Take responsibility for what is going on. This does not mean that everything negative that occurs is your fault, but learn to recognize when you may have contributed to the situation and how you can improve it for next time.

• Increase Your Communication Skills – Miscommunication is one of the main sources of stress in the workplace. Think back to times where you may have miscommunicated something, why that happened, and what you can do to improve things next time.

• Do Not Skip Lunch or Other Meals - Make sure you fill up on nutritious foods, not junk. If you are hungry, it becomes much harder to cope with the demands of work. It is always best to get out of your office for lunch to recharge your batteries, even if you can only do it for a short period.

• Watch How Much You Take On – You may want to prove that you can handle all the tasks being asked of you, but this can come at a cost. We all know of people who try to do everything, and never really do anything well or become unreliable. Don't be one of those people. Know when you have to speak up, or have to ask for help with a project.

In conclusion, following these tips will allow you to reduce stress in the workplace.