Statistics don’t lie. Research suggests that stress is a killer. According to the World Health Organization, 80 to 90 percent of all illnesses are either directly or indirectly caused by stress. In another study, researchers found that more than 50 percent of employees would be willing to take a day off work without pay in an effort to feel less stressed and have more time with their families.
Further studies have found that the majority of stress that people experience at work is directly related to work issues such as time management, deadlines, and dealing with difficult co-workers. Fortunately, there are action steps that you can take on a daily basis to eliminate these stresses.
Here are some tips for relieving work related stress.
Watch what You Eat.
Avoid eating unhealthy snacks. Eating healthy food can increase your energy.
Reduce Your Caffeine Intake. Drinking lots of coffee and sodas can increase your stress levels. If you can’t cut out caffeine beverages completely, try to alternate your caffeine intake with healthier beverages or snacks.
Exercise Regularly.
Exercise is a great way to relieve stress, so try to take a brisk 10-minute walk during the day, even if it means a walk around the office or building. Walking will help to get your blood moving and give you a mental break from your tasks.
Stretch Your Body.
Stretching helps to relieve stiff muscles, which can hold tension and make you feel more stressed.Plan Ahead.
Getting up 15 minutes earlier, and packing lunches or laying out clothes the night before, can help create a routine and get you organized.
Breathe Deeply.
When we are stressed, we have a tendency to take shallow breaths, which can result in feeling more tension. Start by inhaling deeply through the nose for a count of 4, and then exhaling slowly for a count of 8. This helps to release toxins through your breath. Concentrate on your counting and breath.
Get a Good Nights Sleep.
Be sure you are getting enough sleep at night. Not feeling rested can add to your stress level and make you feel more overwhelmed. If you have been experiencing recurring sleepless nights, consult your physician for guidance.
Do Things You Enjoy.
Try to do something you love every day to give yourself something to look forward to. Most stress arises due to feelings of life being out of control. By taking time to get yourself organized, and taking care of yourself, you can begin to gain control and ensure that your workday is as relaxed as possible.
Eliminate Time-Wasters.
Make a list of all the things that currently waste your time and reduce your productivity. These can include things like checking your emails, interruptions at your desk, talking too long on the phone, attending meetings, or on a personal level watching TV, getting up late and not prioritizing your day.
Then next to each time-waster write down what you can do to change that. Then put your plan into action today!
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