10 Creative Ways To Overcome Stress At The Workplace

Stress at the workplace is a common issue that many individuals face. Various factors such as heavy workload, tight deadlines, conflicts with coworkers, and a lack of support from management can cause it. If left unchecked, stress can severely affect an individual's physical and mental health, productivity, and job satisfaction.

The Rising Level Of Stress In The Workplace For Women In India

In India, women face a variety of challenges in the workplace, including discrimination, harassment, and unequal pay. In recent years, there has been a rising level of stress at work for women in India. This is due to increasing job market demands, the pressure to perform at a high level, and the lack of support from colleagues and management. Many women in India also face the added stress of balancing their work responsibilities with their duties at home, as traditional gender roles often dictate that women bear the primary burden for household chores and childrearing. As a result, women in India often face high stress and burnout, which can negatively affect their mental and physical health. Employers and society need to recognize and address the unique challenges and stress women in India face in the workplace.

Five Reasons Why Women Feel More Stress At Work

• Increasing workload: With the pressure to perform and meet deadlines, many Indian women at the workplace face an increasing workload, leading to higher stress levels.
• Lack of work-life balance: With little time for personal pursuits, Indian women struggle to maintain a healthy work-life balance, leading to increased stress levels.
• Gender discrimination: Despite advances in gender equality, many Indian women still face prejudice and bias at the workplace, leading to higher stress and anxiety levels.
• Harassment: Unfortunately, Indian women in the workplace are often subject to harassment, whether it be sexism in the workplace or otherwise, which can significantly increase stress levels.
• Limited support: Many Indian women in the workplace face little support from colleagues or management, making it difficult for them to manage their workload and stress levels.

10 Creative Ways To Overcome Stress At Workplace: 

#1. Identify the sources of stress

The first step to overcoming stress in the workplace is to identify what is causing it. Is it your workload? Your coworkers? Your boss? There are many sources of stress at the workplace that can affect an individual's well-being and productivity. Workplace stress can also be caused by poor communication, lack of support or resources, and lack of job security.Additionally, work-life imbalance, discrimination, and harassment can all contribute to stress in the workplace. Individuals need to recognize the sources of stress in their work environment and take steps to manage and reduce it to maintain their physical and mental health and well-being. Once you have a clear understanding of the sources of your stress, it will be easier for you to find ways to address and manage them.

#2. Communicate with your coworkers and management

Open communication is key to resolving any workplace issues. You must let your coworkers and management know if you feel overwhelmed or stressed. They can help you lighten your workload or provide support and resources. There are several ways to communicate with coworkers and management, including face-to-face conversations, emails, and virtual meetings. Finding a method of communication that works best for you is essential. 

#3. Take breaks and practice self-care

Taking breaks and practicing self-care is essential for maintaining physical and mental health. Make sure to take breaks throughout the day to stretch, take a walk, or take some time for yourself. It's also important to prioritize exercise, healthy eating, and getting enough sleep. These activities can help reduce stress and improve your overall well-being. Taking breaks and practicing self-care can help you feel more energized and focused, leading to increased productivity and a better overall work experience. So, next time you feel overwhelmed with stress at work, remember to take a break and prioritize your self-care. 

#4. Learn to say 'no'

It's important to set boundaries and prioritize your workload. If you are taking on too much, it can be overwhelming and lead to stress. Don't be afraid to say 'no' to additional tasks or responsibilities if you don't have the time or resources to handle them. Learning to say 'no' can also help you focus on the most important tasks and allow you to give your full attention and effort to those tasks. By taking control of your workload and setting boundaries, you can better manage your stress and improve your overall well-being in the workplace.

#5. Practice relaxation techniques

There are a variety of relaxation techniques that can help reduce stress, including deep breathing, meditation, and yoga. Take a few minutes each day to practice these techniques to help clear your mind and relax your body. By practicing relaxation techniques, we can better manage workplace stress and improve our overall well-being. It is essential to find what works best for you and to make relaxation a regular part of your daily routine.

#6. Seek support from friends and family

You must have a support system outside of work that you can turn to for help and encouragement. Don't be afraid to lean on your friends and family for support when you feel overwhelmed or stressed at work. 

#7. Seek professional help

If you are struggling to manage your stress on your own, consider seeking the help of a mental health professional. A therapist or counselor can provide additional support and guidance on coping with workplace stress. These professionals can help you work through your stress and develop coping strategies. They can also provide a safe and confidential space for you to express your feelings.

#8. Set goals and prioritize tasks

Setting goals and prioritizing tasks can help you stay organized and focused, which can reduce stress. Make a list of the tasks you need to complete and prioritize them based on importance and deadline. This will help you stay on track and avoid feeling overwhelmed. To set goals, start by identifying your long-term objectives and then break them down into smaller, more manageable goals. Make sure your goals are SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound) to increase your chances of success. Write down your goals and review them regularly to stay on track. Remember to be flexible and adjust your goals and priorities to stay on track and manage stress effectively.

#9. Practice time management

Effective time management is crucial for reducing stress at work. Make a schedule for yourself and stick to it as closely as possible. This will help you stay organized and avoid feeling rushed or overwhelmed. Setting aside specific times for each task allows for more focus and less multitasking, which can lead to reduced stress. Regular breaks to stretch, meditate, or engage in a relaxing activity can help clear the mind and re-energize. It is important to remember to prioritize tasks and focus on the most pressing items first. Overall, by practicing time management and taking care of oneself, one can effectively manage workplace stress and increase overall well-being.

#10. Seek opportunities for growth and development

Learning and growing your career can help reduce stress and increase job satisfaction. Seek opportunities for professional development and consider taking on additional responsibilities or projects that challenge you and help you grow as a professional. By actively seeking out opportunities for growth and development, you can beat workplace stress and build a fulfilling and successful career.

AskSHEROES Helpline: 

AskSHEROES Helpline is a valuable resource for Indian women who are struggling with stress at the workplace. Here women can get the support and guidance they need to manage their stress and improve their overall well-being.

AskSHEROES helpline connects women with experienced professionals (women-only) trained to provide emotional support and practical advice. Whether you are dealing with a demanding boss, facing workplace harassment, or simply feeling overwhelmed by your workload, the team at AskSHEROES can help you navigate your challenges and find solutions.

Below are also some fun and creative ways to beat workplace stress:

• Keep a jar of silly putty on your desk for stress-relieving squeezing.

• Bring in a small, quiet fan to blow away your stress.

• Take a quick walk outside to get some fresh air and clear your head.

• Keep a supply of stress balls or other fidget toys in your desk drawer.

• Keep a small plant on your desk to add a touch of nature and oxygen to your workspace.

• Take a few deep breaths and close your eyes for a quick meditation break.

• Put on some headphones and listen to calming music or a guided meditation.

• Take a break and do some stretching or yoga poses at your desk.

• Use scented candles or essential oils to create a calming atmosphere.

• Keep a stress-relieving coloring book or puzzle nearby to escape work-related stress quickly.

Did you find these stress-busting tips helpful? By following these tips and strategies, you can effectively manage and overcome stress at the workplace. Remember to take care of yourself and seek support when needed. Do share your feedback in the Glow Lovely Career Community on SHEROES. Get expert guidance from trained professionals and make your work-life fulfilling.