In March of 2010 we published an article entitled “How to Deal with Stress at Work and Thrive,” which discussed some techniques that would help to reduce stress level in the work place. Now, we would like to revisit that topic with additional information and ideas.

According to the American Institute of Stress, 40% of Americans report that their job is an extreme source of stress for them. Furthermore, 75% of workers believe that jobs in America are more stressful than they were one decade ago.

The most common sources of job stress are:

• Lack of control
• Increased responsibility
• Job satisfaction & performance
• Uncertainty about work roles
• Poor communication
• Lack of support
• Working conditions

Personal health is a concern strongly associated with stress, including heart issues, back pain, fatigue, and headache.

These are the most common signs of job stress:

• Headaches
• Trouble sleeping
• Problems concentrating
• Short temper
• Upset stomach
• Job dissatisfaction and low morale

You can reduce some job stress by noticing what things that you have control over and those you don’t. You may not have total control over the deadline however you do have control over how you manage your thoughts about it.  By focusing the mind on the present moment task you can avoid negative thoughts shifting into the future.

Here is a simple and easy method you can do often;

First, identifying your stressors is an important part of ridding the work place of stress. Each time that you feel yourself becoming stressed ask yourself if you have total control of the situation or person.  Most often we don’t.

Second, tell yourself that you can change how you think about it.  Easier said than done? True, but it is a process that takes practice.  To do this allow your body sit comfortably and relax. Closing your eyes breath in and out very deeply.  The key to relaxation is to refocus thinking.  So its best as you relax to focus on your breath going in and going out.  This can become a form of mediating. Notice any sensations that you experience as just an experience; not making it right or wrong.  Do this 5-7 times. Typically people try to clear the mind or focus on many different things.  This in itself is challenging.  That is why a simply focusing on your breathing can be more beneficial.  It is effective, powerful, and a proven method for de-stressing.

I know stress is a hot issue, and I would like to continue our conversation.  If you personally struggle with stress in your workplace, please leave a comment below.