The workplace is a source of frustration for many. Whether stress and problems come from our co-workers, our boss or our own pattern of thinking at work, no one is totally immune from some negative feelings about our careers. But if you're struggling with such problems, take solace in the fact that it simply doesn't have to be this way. Here are some tips to help make your work life more much more pleasant.
Check Your Form
This isn't referring to paperwork. For office work, make sure that your posture and keyboard technique are correct. If your job is more physical in nature, make sure that you're lifting with your knees or you may be in for a visit with a work comp doctor. Form is important when doing any sort of task, and the physical stress you may unwittingly put your body through absolutely will affect your mood. Additionally, looking good will trick your mind into feeling good.
Reduce Stress Outside of the Workplace
Obviously, this can be very difficult, but it's a must. Everyone brings negative thoughts from their personal life with them into work. If you're in the midst of any personal troubles, learn to clear your thoughts before work. When you're done for the day, go about solving your problems in a healthy way and you'll feel your workplace performance improve.
Communicate
Don't engage in passive-aggressive behavior with a co-worker or, even worse, with a boss. Be upfront and assertive about what needs to be done to make work pleasant and efficient, but understand where your boundaries are. Be willing to compromise and show respect for everyone's feelings, even if they aren't as respectful themselves. Also, be sure that you're completely honest with yourself about how your workplace makes you feel.
Time Management
This might mean being less regimented or more strict. Is the way you delegate responsibility unbalanced? Do you always show up on time? Do you always get a good night's sleep? You may need to change some habits, but it's worth it.
Make the Most Out of Breaks
Whether it's lunch or a regularly scheduled break, make sure you're really committing to the idea of a break. Avoid mentally going over what needs to happen when you get back to your desk. If a coworker wants to engage in unnecessary griping about work-related issues, figure out how to politely change the subject. It will help your productivity and majorly cut down on stress.