We use the word "stress" when we are overwhelmed. And we're not sure we can handle the pressure we're under at work. Anything that we consider a challenge or threat, we define as "stress". Sometimes it also has a positive impact - it makes us alert, searching and keep moving forward.
What is the difference between a "stressor" and "stress" ?
The stressor is the factor that causes stress. And stress is the feeling we get when we are under pressure. Chronic stress causes anxiety, insomnia, depression and heart problems. And a one-time or felt for a short period - headaches, inability to concentrate and short temper.
Dealing with it goes through managing it and embracing that it can be a positive thing.
Factors for the formation of stress at work can be of different types:
- night shifts
- disorganization
- the development of technology and the inability to keep up with it
- small incomes
- work overload
- lack of support from family and friends
- conflicting requirements
- anxiety about being fired
- the desire to excel
- poor treatment by colleagues and employers
Here's how to deal with stress
Four useful steps :
- Physical health
The foundation of a healthy body and mind is proper nutrition, amount of exercise and quality of sleep. Proper nutrition can be achieved by avoiding the consumption of sugar and processed fats. Consume more fruits, vegetables and foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Physical activity unlocks the "happiness hormone: - endorphin. Movement will make you feel calm, focused, concentrated and increase your energy. When one is sleep deprived the impact of work stressors is felt more strongly. Build healthy sleep habits - aim for 7-8 hours of sleep and turn off your phone or TV screens an hour before bed. - Don't let work become the centre of your life, but make social contacts
After all, it is only a means to satisfy our material needs and to raise our status in life. Provide time with your family and friends. A movie night or practicing a favorite sport will help unwind. - Be organised
Scheduling tasks will allow you to organize your time properly. Thus 24h will be quite enough. - Learn to say "no"
Assess your own strengths and capabilities. Do not accept other people's assignments if they will interfere with the accurate and correct performance of your responsibilities.
As much as we would like to, our organism does not have unlimited possibilities. In the effort to get our work done on time, we reach a point of overload. To deal with stress, you first need to pinpoint its root cause and try to apply our four steps to dealing with it.