Tips on How to Handle Pressure at Work
A challenge is an obstacle that must be overcome to achieve a goal. When you apply the definition of a challenge to the workplace, it is a problem that is stopping you from achieving workplace or career success. Employees of all levels will face challenges in the workplace. Each workplace is made up of different management styles, personality types and personal goals, sometimes leading to workplace conflict or challenges.
One of the most highly sought after skill is the ability to deal with pressure. If pressure at work is part of your everyday life, you will be pleased to learn that there are things you can do to both lower the pressure and prove to others that you can handle pressure effectively.
Here are some tips on how you can handle on-the-job pressure:
Always maintain a calm demeanor
Maintain a calm demeanor no matter what happens. This takes some practice, but the more you practice, the better you will get. Staying calm demonstrates that you have the ability to take things in stride and complete your tasks even in the face of difficult circumstances.
Prioritize and stay focused on what needs to be accomplished
Even though the day may be stressful, keep your mind firmly focused on completing your regular responsibilities. Learn to break things down into steps, and determine what needs to be done right now and what can wait. Then determine what needs to be done first, second and third. Breaking up a larger situation into smaller tasks will make an overwhelming situation feasible, and as you check these things off of your to-do list you will gain composure and get a handle on things.
Stay positive always
Refuse to engage in arguments or other disagreements with your colleagues. Keep busy to enable your thoughts to remain positive and focused.
Get help if you need it
Delegate some tasks to colleagues or people under you. If you are struggling with some personal issues, if you have the means call a therapist who can help you work through them. Spend time with loved ones you will support and will help you through difficult and stressful times. You do not have to handle things by yourself, you can reach out for help.
Steer clear of too much caffeine
Coffee is a good stimulant, and while it can be a good thing for you in small amounts, too much of it can actually cause you undue stress. Limit your coffee intake and space them out throughout your work time. Chocolate is also a stimulant, so go easy on the chocolate snacks.
Take scheduled breaks
Taking short breaks helps you release pent-up stress, rejuvenates you, and actually enables you to be more productive. Take a walk to the restroom or just get up and move about your office space.
Join in with big projects
From time to time, your company may need help with a large or complex project. Take on the responsibility willingly. Showing your ability to be flexible demonstrates your willingness to step out of your comfort zone, openness to learning something new, as well as your ability to handle added pressure.
Don’t worry too much
Carry on with your responsibilities, no matter what is going on. Consciously bringing your mind back to your current action in completing your important tasks will help you let go of worrying and other stress.
When we are stressed and overwhelmed it is easy to fall into bad habits. It is easy to rationalize these habits when you’re stressed; but taking care of yourself when you’re under pressure actually gives you more energy and helps you focus. Make sure you’re eating fresh, healthy food like lean proteins, vegetables and healthy carbs; drink lots of water and setting aside some time to exercise.
Taking some time to meditate at the beginning and end of each day also helps clear your mind; and is a peaceful, healthy way to beginning and end your day—especially when life is chaotic. Spend time with friends and family. Go outside and breathe fresh air. You will handle pressure with more focus and grace if you cultivate healthy responses to stress, and make sure to take care of yourself.
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Culled from: Forbes; Business 2 Community.
