Career Coach Says Don't Let Stress Foul Your Career

Today's workplace is a breeding ground for killer stress: pressure to get more done

with less; layoffs; overtime and inflexible schedules; irritable co-workers and bosses; sedentary lifestyle that leads to bad habits of overeating junk food and spending too much time in a stupor before the TV; uncertainty about the future.

While there is no such thing as a job without stress, you can take 11 steps to reduce the life threatening damage it causes.

1. Improve you dietary habits. Cut down on the junk food. Stop eating at your desk. Reduce your intake of alcohol.

2. Get rid of the clutter and organize your work area. If possible add plants to your environment. Set up an efficient filing system. Don't clutter your desk top with outdated or useless paper and knick-knacks. The exceptions are photos of your family, pets and happy times.

3. Consider your work posture. Sitting up straight is not good. It's a good idea to lean back at a 135-degree angle in your desk chair. Change positions frequently.

4. Reduce the pressure to do more with less. Review your work habits. Are you wasting time? Understand what is expected of you and plan your efforts and resources to meet those expectations. Don't be reluctant to ask for help when you need it. When you are overloaded or short on resources, don't hesitate to discuss your work with your boss.

5. You may not have much control over the matter, but do try to hold your overtime hours to a reasonable level.

6. Request flexible hours. Several studies have shown that having control of one's own work hours yields health benefits in terms of blood pressure and sleep.

7. Exercise. Avoid too much sitting. Get away from your workplace for a few minutes at least once an hour. Walk around. Stretch. Exercise during your lunch break. Take the stairs rather than the elevator. Of course, a regular workout regime of even a few minutes each day is most desirable.

8. Get plenty of rest and sleep. Vegging in a daze in front of the TV is not the same as going to bed at a decent hour, and getting a restful night's sleep.

9. Get to know your boss. Understanding him or her and the pressures that their positions impose will improve the relationship and improve the atmosphere in which your work.

10. Maintain good relationships with your fellow workers. Offer help when you see a colleague is overloaded. Turn to them when you are in a jam. Meet after work, off site, for a beer now and then.

11. Get a life beyond your job: a hobby, a public service project, reading, acquire knowledge and skills in a different job or career path.

by: Ramon Greenwood

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