Regardless of the type of job you have, you are bound to experience stress — physically, mentally, and even emotionally. They key is to learn how to manage stress, be it in the workplace, school, or anywhere else, for that matter.
In this article, we’ll be discussing some tried and tested strategies for dealing with stress. Whether you’re facing physical exhaustion, looming deadlines, or work-related “pressure,” you don’t have to feel overwhelmed, because managing stress is very much possible!
How to Manage Stress in the Workplace
Long hours, tight deadlines… these are just some of the things that may cause us to feel stressed. Fortunately, you can manage stress by heeding the following suggestions from the Workplace Development Agency (WDA) of the Ministry of Labor (MOL):
Identify Sources of Stress
Whenever you find yourself getting stressed, write and reflect about it in a journal. What happened, how did you feel, and how did you react? Answer these questions as completely and honestly as you can. Later, you are bound to realize what exactly is causing you to feel stressed. And when you’re aware of the source(s) of stress, you can shift your focus towards managing it effectively.
Learn to Relax
On a busy day, you might find yourself getting caught up in all the rush and deadlines… that you forget to slow down and relax. During these times, it helps to engage in some relaxation techniques that will help calm your mind and body. We suggest that you:
- Do some deep breathing exercises;
- Practice meditation and calm your mind;
- Take a short walk to clear your head; or
- Enjoy a hot beverage or a light meal.
Manage Your Time
In most cases, proper time management could be the solution to dealing with workplace stress. You can start by making a list, everyday, of your tasks. Prioritize the urgent and important matters first, and check things off your list once they’re done.
Furthermore, do not hesitate to delegate tasks when needed. You don’t have to do everything alone! Most workplace goals involve teamwork, so don’t be shy to ask for help when necessary!
Develop Healthy Habits
A healthy body and mind is stronger and better in managing stress. Take time to nurture yourself by developing healthy habits, such as:
- Choosing healthy foods and eating a balanced diet;
- Exercising regularly or engaging in sports activities;
- Having a hobby (e.g. reading, drawing, playing music); and
- Getting enough sleep and rest.
Transform Your Mindset
How’s your mindset? Oftentimes, a simple shift in perspective can do wonders. If you tend to think negatively as a habit, then things will always seem bleak and stressful! On the other hand, if you cultivate a positive outlook, you will find yourself more capable of facing challenges. In addition, developing an “attitude of gratitude” will help you to be happier and more appreciative!
Establish a Support System
“No man is an island,” as the old saying goes. This is where relationships with your family, friends, and colleagues comes in. They are part of your “support system” — people that you can turn to whenever you feel down and you need help. Having a good support system is essential to our overall health and well-being.
Seek Professional Help
If you find yourself unable to handle stress, so much that it is affecting your physical, mental, and emotional health — don’t be afraid to ask for help. You can start by calling the “1925 Peace of Mind Hotline,” which offers psychological counseling, 24 hours a day. These days, there are many resources and services that focus on mental health; you can always reach out and use these services.
In today’s fast-paced world, our daily life may sometimes feel overwhelming, and so learning stress management is a must. By following the above tips, you can effectively manage stress and look forward to a rewarding and fulfilling experience in the workplace.
Speaking of health, did you know that there are certain conditions affecting OFWs more often than others? Check out this article to read about common health issues among Filipinos in Taiwan.