Career Survival: Put Stress In it's Place

The project you are working on is overdue and the boss is starting to ask questions. You are having trouble catching on to the latest computer program you are supposed to be learning. Your child's school just called for a parent-teacher interview and it sounds like there's trouble. You are worried about how you will pay next month's rent. Your head aches, your stomach hurts, and your hand is shaking so hard it's difficult to hold a cup of coffee. Have you ever felt overwhelmed like this?

When you are overloaded with stress, it's hard to focus on working safely. Your inattention may cause you to trip over an unseen obstacle, cut your finger in a paper cutter, or wander into the wrong lane while driving. Whether the stress is job-related or caused by off-the-job responsibilities, the result can be the same - accidents.

 

Look for these signs of stress overload:

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  An inability to concentrate on your task, daydreaming, brooding or excessive worrying can all be a sign of too much stress. Forgetfulness and a feeling of worthlessness can also indicate that you should make some changes in your life. 
• Emotional tension is an indicator of stress. For example, feeling anxious and unhappy, having trouble sleeping and being easily startled. Other indications that you are under too much pressure may include feeling overwhelmed by your daily tasks and being unable to separate small difficulties from larger problems. 
• Physical symptoms may include headaches, pounding heart, indigestion, high blood pressure, cold and clammy hands, and trembling. It all adds up to extra wear and tear on your body. 

 

At some point in our lives everyone will experience stress, but it isn't always caused by unhappy events. Weddings, a new baby, a different job or a new home can all contribute to the tension that you experience. By looking after your health and learning to manage your time more effectively, you can reduce the harmful side-effects of stress. Try the following suggestions to reduce your stress and increase your safety:

 

• Practice good health habits. Get enough rest at night and exercise for at least a half-hour several times a week. Eat regular nutritious meals which are high in whole grains, fruits and vegetables and low in fat, sugar and salt. 
• Avoid drugs, alcohol, caffeine and nicotine which might give temporary relief but eventually only add to your stress load. Instead, learn some relaxation techniques from sources such as books and tapes, recreation centers, self-help programs and therapists. Try to find at least 15 minutes a day to spend on your favorite hobby. 
• Make a few small changes at a time to help you cope. If you are worried about money, organize a goal for saving a small amount each month or set up a family budget. Learn to say "no" to extra social commitments which would increase your stress level. But remember to fit in some activities which you do enjoy. 
• Learn to think positively about life and other people. By looking for the good in every situation, you can teach yourself to cope with the ups and downs of life. 
• Keep your sense of humor. Some of the most stressful experiences can be quite funny when you look back at them. 

 Everyone experiences stress. Learn to manage it so that you can maintain your health and peace of mind - and work effectively and safely. And recognize when you truly can’t cope. If you feel overwhelmed and it’s just too much to handle, see your doctor.

 

 

© 2016 Bongarde

 

 

Converse Consultants is an industry leader in geotechnical engineering, and environmental, groundwater and materials sciences. We are celebrating our 70th year of service. 

 

For more information about Converse please contact Beth George at bgeorge@converseconsultants.com