The American Psychological Association’s Stress in America survey reports nearly seven in 10 employees say work is a major source of stress, and burnout has reached a six-year high despite many people taking action to improve mental well-being, according to Fast Company.
Chronic stress is the main culprit because the “body’s alarm system never shuts off” and always remains in survival mode. Research from Harvard shows this can diminish focus, creativity and overall health over time.
Fast Company shares the following steps to help reclaim joy and de-stress in a meaningful way.
- See stress differently. Start reducing work stress by asking whether the source of stress is important and whether you have control over it. People often skip those questions and jump straight to worry, which often leads to assuming the worst or taking responsibility for things that are not their responsibility. Take the time to think about what really matters and whether it is within your control.
- Sort stress into categories. Not all work stress is the same. Schedule stress comes from having too much to do and not enough time. Suspense stress comes from waiting for what is uncertain or looming. Social stress comes from tension in relationships and team dynamics. Sudden stress is unannounced—such as an urgent request—and demands a response. System stress comes from structures, processes and culture, such as unclear expectations. Although sorting the stress does not immediately resolve the issue, it can help you clarify the problem you are trying to solve.
- Solve stress without spinning. Stress often causes people to spin out as they attempt to solve everything at once while actually solving nothing. Instead, identify your stressor and implement one small doable action you can take to address it.
