Stress in the workplace
Every work challenge induces "good stress", that energizes and motivates us, bringing a real satisfaction when succeeding. But when it turns into unreachable demands, the stress becomes too much important and make us less productive.
Stress in the workplace is often due to working conditions, for example :
- Unpleasant work environment (noise, smoke, crowding...)
- Bad or unsufficient relationships (poor social environment, lack of communication or help, conflicts)
- Career-related problems (lack of advancement opportunities, job insecurity, sudden changes)
- Bad tasks design (unsufficient rest breaks, heavy workload, routine tasks, bad skill management)
- Bad or unsufficient work roles definitions (conflicting expectations, too much responsability, roles not clearly enough defined)
However, individual factors can contribute to strengthen or weaken
it, depending on the person concerned (its support, its positive/relaxed
outlook or not, its capabilities to balance between work and family or
personal life).
Limit or avoid stress in the workplace depends on the employee AND the employer : the employee can reduce his own stress, while the employer is able to eliminate stress factors in the workplace.
As a worker, the most important thing is to have a good personal organization, that allows you to respect priorities and deadlines without anxiety problems. Always try to be positive : celebrating your accomplishments is good for motivation! However, also keep realistic : too much work without relaxing will raise down your productivity.
Of course, the employer can improve working conditions by simple changes, but organisational changes and stress management are most valuable for the long term. If necessary, the employer should :
- Establish work schedules that are compatible with family life and responsabilities outside the job.
- Adapt the workload to workers' skill, try to provide meaning and stimulation.
- Clearly define workers' roles and responsibilities.
- Give employees opportunities to participate in decisions concerning their job.
- Improve communications about career development and opportunities.
- Find ways to improve social interactions among workers.
- Show appreciation (people need to feel important and appreciated!)