Health Feature Articles
Stress at Work
Jinny Hopp, Human Development Specialist, Jasper County University of Missouri Extension
Stress can be a positive factor in our lives. Some
stress energizes us. However, when we have more demands
than we can meet, we may feel out of control. High
levels of stress may have a negative impact on physical
health, mental well-being, and relationships. So how
much stress is appropriate?
Research by the Families and Work Institute reports
that we are energized by our work when these factors are
present:
- We have autonomy to control our own schedule
- We have opportunities to learn new information or skills
- We feel that the work we are doing makes a difference to others
- We have the chance to get ahead personally
- We know that our job is secure
How then can we use this information to reduce the
stress in our jobs?
- Eliminate interruptions when you need to get work completed - close the door if you can - if not, work out a system with co-workers so that someone is “on duty” to answer the phone, greet customers, etc
- Expect work to happen at work – the phone will ring, customers will come in, the copy machine will run out of toner, etc
- Personalize your work area with photos of family or pictures drawn by your children
- Schedule and take your breaks and vacation days
- Speak Up – When you want something ask: be clear about your ideas, appreciate being heard, and don’t take it personally if your request is denied
- Is this necessary? Ask your boss if a task seems unnecessary; it is surprising how many “old habits” have never been updated
- Suggest a new way if you think you have a better way to get a job done
- Use a support system of co-workers to share tasks – do what you say you will do to support them
- Enjoy every day! Don’t wait for special days to celebrate the joy of living – celebrate small successes with those who helped achieve them, which will make everyone feel less stressed!
Use these ideas to make a list of the stressors at your
work. Then examine the list to determine what strategies
you might try to reduce some of the stress in your work.
For more ideas about balancing work and life see GH 6651
The Challenge of Balance at
http://extension.missouri.edu/explore.
Source: Feeling Overworked: When Work Becomes Too Much, Families & Work Institute. 2001.
Internet: http://www.familiesandwork.org
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Last Updated 04/25/2008
