Training Tactics

How to Manage Everyday Work Pressure

by Valerie Manso

A little stress is often a good source of motivation, but too much stress may cause both physical and psychological poor health.

Here are some tips to help you manage everyday pressure at work.

MAKE A LIST

Excess pressure is often caused by a sense of lack of control. These feelings usually occur when we're overworked, projects are late, or expectations are not being met.

The old adage “Plan your work and work your plan” holds more weight today than ever before. Begin every day with a list of the items you wish to accomplish. Then prioritize your list.

Now work your plan: Check off items as they are completed. At the end of each day, you'll have a sense of accomplishment and a good handle on what did not get completed. The incomplete items are moved to the next day and the process begins again.

TAKE FIVE

Balance in all we do and experience is an essential component of any well-functioning system. Thus it is essential that you learn to unwind.

Take regular breaks and walk away from daily activities. Step outdoors, breath in the fresh air, or pick up a magazine to rest your mind on non-work-related subjects for five minutes. Talk to associates about pleasant non-work subjects or take a lunch break and leave your work space. A simple change of geography creates a physical break so you can return to your work tasks refreshed and ready to proceed.

LAUGH IT OFF

“Laughter is the best medicine” is a well-known saying that is absolute truth. Laughter improves how our hearts function, reduces stress levels, and has the power to heal relationships.

Laughter is great for mental outlook and, because of its many health benefits, laughter can indirectly help manage chronic pain and speed recovery from injury.

Think of laughter as an internal aerobic workout. Medical research shows that whenever we laugh, we release a wave of chemicals through the body, including endorphins, which are also released during healthy exercise. Endorphins are the body's natural relaxant. They stimulate feelings of well-being, joy, and release a “high.”

Prevention is better than cure. Take your “pressure temperature,” and take corrective actions as soon as you identify signs of excessive pressure in your life. EB

Valerie Manso is the president of Manso Management Resources, Inc., a training and development company specializing in the ophthalmic industry. Valerie can be contacted at valmanso@aol.com.

Health conditions linked to excessive pressure ■ High blood pressure ■ Heart disease ■ Alcoholism ■ Stroke ■ Ulcers ■ Depression ■ Anxiety, including phobias ■ Digestive disorders ■ Rheumatoid arthritis ■ Thyroid disorders Behavioral effects of excessive pressure ■ Poor concentration ■ Increased consumption of coffee or alcohol ■ Depressed mood ■ Increased smoking ■ Irritability ■ Inability to make a decision ■ Anxious behavior ■ Inability to deal with common problems ■ Withdrawn behavior ■ Absenteeism