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6 Simple Ways to Avoid and Overcome Work-Related Stress

Do you find yourself feeling overwhelmed at work? The demands of your daily workload and personal responsibilities can make it difficult to healthfully manage your stress level.

Dr. Pamela Walker, PhD, a Clinical Psychologist in private practice at Cooper Aerobics Center, shares six practical tips to ease work-related stress and balance life’s demands.

1. Take a mental break. With never-ending projects and deadlines at work, it is easy to forget to take a break and refresh your body. Sedentary jobs that involve mostly writing, typing and processing verbal information primarily use the left side of the brain. To avoid "left-brain overload," give your brain a break each hour by walking vigorously for a few minutes. Simply walk up and down stairs or take a quick walk around your building. The bilateral movement of walking not only engages both sides of the brain, but it also enhances blood circulation and provides more oxygen to the brain.

2. Leave your ego at home. In the working world, it's common to receive constructive feedback from your supervisor, manager or even co-workers on daily basis. It's important to not take critical feedback or offhanded comments too personally. Receiving constructive criticism is an essential element to learning, so keep a positive outlook and use the feedback as motivation to improve your work and to perform to the best of your abilities.

3. Prioritize. If your workload seems overwhelming, it's critical to first prioritize your tasks, and then focus on just one task at a time. When your plate is full and you have multiple projects to work on, it's easy to procrastinate and work on the mindless, less stressful tasks first. When you arrive at the office each day, make a list your projects and organize them based on the level of importance. This will help you to stay focused on one task at a time and keep you on track to achieve your goals.

4. Avoid workplace drama. Workplace drama is very common and can cause tense work environments. While you want to treat your co-workers with respect and kindness, you cannot allow yourself to be drawn into dramatic situations at work. Keep your boundaries clear and refuse to engage in any type of worksite drama or gossip. You can help lead the change for a drama-free work environment and gain respect from your co-workers as you establish these boundaries.

5. Gain perspective. It is easy to overlook what is right in front of you while you are juggling the demands of life. Allow yourself to take breaks throughout the day to reflect on your broader surroundings. Nature is known to have a natural healing component, so step outside during the day to appreciate the natural beauty around you. If you work in an urban setting, put a plant in your office to bring nature inside or look out a window at the sky and clouds passing by. This will help put your job and life into perspective as you acknowledge the broader world that you live in.

6. Set boundaries. Technology has enabled people to constantly be connected to their job. Whether you are at home or out shopping, your work voicemail and email are most likely one click away on your phone. Set boundaries to establish work versus non-work during your day. Keep your work life at the office, and your personal life at home. When you keep the two separate, it will result in a better work-life balance and a happier self.

Next time you are feeling the pressure of professional and personal demands, try these tips to successfully overcome stress and to bring more balance into your life.

For more information about Cooper Aerobics, click here or call 972.560.2667.

Article provided by Cooper Aerobics Marketing and Communications.