Stressed at work? You’re not alone

FEELING stressed and overworked and burned out? You’re certainly not alone these days.

Layoffs and other workforce reductions have left so called survivors with increased workloads and other challenges, according to a new survey of more than 4400 workers by CareerBuilder.com.

Nearly half of the workers said they have taken on more responsibility because of a layoff, while 37% said they are handling the work of two people. The survey also found that 34% of workers are spending more time at the office, and 22% are working more weekends.

“Not only will this impact you personally but this is something that’s impacting productivity overall,” says Jennifer Grasz, a spokewoman at CareerBuilder. “When you have workers who are highly stressed and burned out, they’re not going to be performing at the same level.”

CareerBuilder offers some tips on how to keep your stress level in check.

Ø Take some time to recharge

Another CareerBuilder survey found that 35% of 4400 workers survey said they haven’t gone on or aren’t planning to take a vacation this year. Nearly one in five workers said they’re either afraid of losing their jobs if they do or feel guilty about being away.

Grasz says, “Workers need to recharge. It’s counterproductive not to take the time off,” she says.

Ø Prioritise your tasks

Speak to your superior to get feedback on what you should tackle first.
“So that it doesn’t feel like 10 things have to be done in one day,” Grasz says.

Ø Cut the e-leash

That means when you’re on vacation, don’t check your e-mail or voicemail.

“ Says Grasz: “ You need the time to get away from the office, recharge and bring the stress levels down so that when you come back, you could tackle projects more effectively.”

Ø Try to ignore rumours.

Getting caught up with gossip can also distract you from work

If your concerns are serious enough, talk to your supervisor or human resources.

Otherwise, “it’s more important to stay focused on being effective in the things you’re working on,” Grasz said.

She added.” It’s also going to serve you within the organization if you’re known to be
someone who’s working hard.”

Source; THE BORNEO POST

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When someone says, “ I’ve been working really hard,” or “I’m really stressed out,” we are taught to admire, even emulate their behaviour.

Maybe when one’s schedule is getting out of hand, it’s time to slow down and reevaluate what’s important and urgent rather then power through everything on the list.

Stress management is one option but I believe stress consultants are stressed out too!

And of course we are not alone and would never be alone as what I myself experienced in my job.