Extensive use of computers can lead to computer vision syndrome (CVS), where eyes become dry, tired and even strainedWhile some workplace stress is normal, excessive stress can interfere with your productivity and impact your physical and mental health. And your ability to deal with it can mean the difference between success and failure.
Everything in your work environment can’t be controlled, but that doesn’t mean you are powerless in even the most difficult situations. Managing workplace stress isn’t about making huge changes or even thinking about your career and ambitions, but instead looking at the one thing you can always control – yourself
The first thing when dealing with workplace stress is to recognise the symptoms – it can be anything from lack of concentration and fatigue to social withdrawal and stomach problems. All these can lead to you losing your productivity and less effective. If you ignore the signs then they’re likely to lead to bigger problems.
When stress starts to affect your work or health then it’s time to take action.
Prioritise and Organise
Analyse your schedule, responsibilities, and daily tasks. All work and no play is a recipe for burnout. Try to find a balance between work and family life, social activities and solitary pursuits, daily responsibilities and downtime. Making sure that you have a healthy balance between both will ensure you feel happier.
Make a list of tasks you have to do that day, and create an order of importance for them. Do the high-priority tasks first. Get the particularly unpleasant tasks out of the way first. You won’t be thinking of them throughout the day in that case.
Make sure you avoid trying to fit too much into one day or scheduling things too closely. In most cases the time you set out for a task will not be enough. If you’re in a situation where you’ve got too much to do then drop tasks that don’t have to be done immediately, or place them towards the bottom of your list.
Eliminate Interruptions
With Social Media, emails, phone calls, text messages and sudden, urgent deadlines it’s easy to become distracted with constant interruptions, leading you to feel overwhelmed. You may not have control over these interruptions but you can respond to them in one of three ways; accept the interruption, cut it off or work out its importance and work out a plan to deal with it.
Many interruptions are recurring and can be anticipated. Have pre-set criteria for which response you want to make, such as answering emails with a certain time period, or closing the door in your office if you need to focus.
Delegate Responsibility
Accept that you may not be able to do it all on your own. If someone else can do the task, why not let them take over? If you are the type of person who has the desire to control or oversee every little step in your office then try letting it go –you’ll be letting go of unnecessary stress in the process.
Take care of yourself
Make time to exercise – even if it’s in your office! Making sure that you have proper sleep and exercise regularly will improve your physical health and release some of the stress, as you’ll feel energised! Fit regular breaks into your day – working long hours may make you seem like you are working hard, but it may have an adverse effect and you lose productivity. Breaks can help you recharge and improve your productivity
