Dealing with Work Stress - Well Being at Work

​For a minute, just focus your thoughts and attention on your work or job. How do you feel? Be governed by your emotions as they are always telling you something. If you feel really good then that’s really positive although if something makes you feel unhappy or stressed, then something needs to change.
Many people spend 8 hours each day at work which is a lot of time therefore it is so important to get the ‘Wellbeing Factor’ right.

---

Being passionate about your work is obviously foremost although it is possible to be in a pretty mundane job yet have fulfilling social interactions with your colleagues which means your day at work can be satisfying and even enjoyable, after all psychology research has shown that people who can affect our wellbeing most are families and peer groups(workmates).

Generally, some Wellbeing Factors for work are:

•    Passion for your work
•    Positive social interactions with colleagues,
•    Taking time to clear your energy field. Have a break/walk outside for at least 10 minutes in the fresh air. This is of even greater importance in the winter when the long working days means just getting some natural daylight is tricky.
•    Eat and drink healthily and regularly – make sure you take your allocated breaks.
•    Have regular sleep during the working week.
•    Avoid any negativity as much as possible distancing yourself from any conversations/gossip about others.
•    Take time off if feeling unwell.
•    Keep relationships with colleagues as amicable as possible

Stress at Work

Stress at work is very common with a high percentage of employees having days off with work related stress illness. Be aware of any signs which can include:

•    Insomnia
•    Anxiousness
•    Reduced immunity and increased susceptibility to infection.
•    Chest pain/palpitations.
•    Gastrointestinal problems.
•    Shortness of breath/asthma symptoms.
•    General unhappiness/ tearfulness and in extreme cases full blown depression.

Any of these symptoms when connected to work means that something needs to change. Try and identify the underlying cause and if possible discuss with a trusted individual although if things don’t change, it may be worth honouring your health and looking for work elsewhere.

Self-Employment

Self-Employment gives you the freedom to work when you wish and be your own boss but setting up a business involves a huge commitment and many self-employed people work longer than the average working day. Important points to remember when self-employed are:

•    Give yourself breaks and holidays, remember that full time employees have about 20 - 25 days holiday a year.
•    Be flexible and adaptable with your hours.
•    Avoid late nights on computer (or working through the night) as much as possible.
•    Be aware of how elements of work are making you feel. If unhappy with a contract/client etc then look at making changes.
•    Minimise worrying about finances especially in the beginning. Keep thoughts and intentions positive and trust all will be well.

One gentle yet subtle way of managing mild to moderate work stress is the taking of Bach Flower Essences (remedies).  Flower remedies lift our emotions as they contain the energetic imprint of flowers, plants or trees which make us feel better mentally and subsequently physically.

You can download details here of 10 Bach Flower Remedies which provide a self-help list to help lift those stress-related emotions or please feel free to contact me on my email below.

Lisa Elmore