The workplace of today is much different than the workplace of our parents. It has become increasingly difficult to turn the switch off from the stresses of the workplace. Over the holidays, many Americans will be checking their email daily (even on their time off), answer phone calls, or even faxes while at home or while visiting family or friends. With the use of mobile devices, we are never truly "away" from our workplace since many employees are now using company issued mobile devices and getting rid of their personal device. While technology has undoubtedly made our lives better in the last 100 years, constant use of that technology has added a level of stress never before known to mankind in an already overworked nation. We must learn how to manage our lives and workplaces and how to balance the two priorities in order to maintain healthy relationships, happiness and life objectives.
Increased stress can contribute to unhealthy behaviors and habits such as smoking, poor diet choices, excuses to avoid exercise or decreased activity, abandonment of hobbies and social networking. People who recognize the need to deal with their stress levels have adopted healthier behaviors such as exercise, eating healthier foods, good diet, meditation, yoga or psychotherapy/counseling.
Some strategies you can use to help deal with stress during the holidays are:
· Turn off your office when you're not in the office
o Set an automated email response letting working peers you are not available and are on holiday/vacation with a return date
o Screen your calls - let office callers go to voice mail
o Leave a voice mail greeting stating you are out of the office and your return date and time
o Leave faxes in the printer or take out the paper so they must stay in memory until you return to work
· Be aware of your stress level
o Identify your stress reactions and triggers
o Once you experience a stress trigger, utilize your favorite relaxation technique
· Turn off and tune in
o Work at being present in the moment
o Set rules for yourself and communicate those rules to others
o Let technology be a tool that works FOR you, rather than against you
· Keep a "to-do" list
o Put your worries on a "wait" list
o Clear your head and put your thoughts on a list
o Prioritize your lists
o Review your list daily
· Take short breaks
o Even family events can cause stress - take short breaks to be alone and recoup
o Wrap up one thing before starting another
o Remember to "breathe"
· Take care of yourself
o Get plenty of rest
o Eat healthy
o Drink plenty of water
o Engage in physical activity
o Listen to your favorite music or read a good book
· Ask for help
o Ask a friend or family member to help with chores/tasks
o Get your family involved in accomplishing tasks or assign them activities
o Get Professional Help - your employer may have stress management programs or information available for you. If not, and you feel overwhelmed, seek professional help from a counselor
If you are experiencing stress as a result of the holidays and your job, you might consider seeking professional help. Visit my website: L. Kay Byers, LPC http://advancecounselingcentre.com/
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