How to Reduce Workplace Stress During Times of Change

Change can be stressful. Even the smallest of changes can kick-start a chain of anxiety-ridden events which turn a mole-hill into a mountain. 

We spend a huge amount of time sat at our office chairs. As a result, it’s vital that this part of your life is calm and not completely riddled with stress. 

Of course, it’s normal to experience a bit of workplace stress every now and again, and many people find this to be motivating. However, there is a limit to that thought process and when stress is allowed to build over the long-term, it can be dangerous to morale and indeed, dangerous to health. 

Learning how to manage workplace stress overall is a vital part of the deal, but during times of workplace change, this is even more likely to be a problem. As a result, it’s important to think carefully about the bigger picture and to see things as they are, not allowing anxiety to distort the picture and turn small things into huge problems. 

Check out this video which talks about a few ways to relax and reduce stress. 

At the moment, we’re all dealing with a huge change, not only in terms of the work we do at our office desks but in our lives too. The coronavirus outbreak has changed everything and left a trail of stress and anxiety in its wake. Learning to deal with stress means looking after yourself, understanding that self-care is a vital part of a healthy lifestyle, and also feeling able to talk about your emotions and your thoughts freely. 

Change makes us feel out of control, and whilst we’re not suggesting you should be able to predict every moment whilst you’re in the contemporary office environment, it’s good to feel like things are comfortable and that you have your hands on the reins. Being challenged is one thing, feeling completely out of your comfort zone is quite another. 

So, how can you reduce stress during times of change in the workplace?

Here are a few ideas. 

• Stick together as a team - Make sure that you all recognise the emotional toll the change might be taking and stick together. Talk about things, have regular social outings together, and understand that if your colleague snaps at you one time, it’s nothing personal. 
• Ask for clarity - It’s important to understand the change and why it’s happening. Make sure that you ask your manager if you’re not sure about something and don’t allow it to turn into your own personal nemesis. Seek out answers and you’ll feel calmer and more relaxed as a result. 
• Know your limitations - If you’re starting to feel overwhelmed, understand that you need to take a step back and that it’s vital for your wellbeing. Don’t feel ashamed to ask for a quick time out, and if you feel like you need to head to the office booths and take 5 minutes to yourself, do it. 
• Nurture your health - Managing stress really starts with the basics, so make sure that you’re looking after your general health. This means eating a healthy diet, getting plenty of sleep, drinking enough water every day, and getting some exercise. Also, make sure that you’re not turning to unhealthy coping mechanisms in order to cope. Be mindful of how much you’re drinking, quit smoking, and place your total focus on optimal health. You’ll feel far stronger for it.

You should also know that if you’re struggling, you’re well with your rights to go to see your manager and explain that you’re suffering from stress. There is no failing in this, and you’re simply explaining how you feel and seeking support as a result. By doing this, you’re taking the first step towards recovery. Your manager will then be able to support you and help you through this period of change.