The reasons for stress are varied. Some of the common stressors are financial worries, medical issues, work pressures, traffic congestion, child related issues, strained relationships, death of a loved one and loneliness.
Stress affects you both physically and mentally. Headaches, allergies, insomnia, lethargy, hair loss and exhaustion are physical symptoms of stress. Other symptoms of stress include depression, anxiety, frustration, rage and hostility.
Stress is not all bad. Experts suggest that a certain amount of stress is necessary and desirable in our lives to progress and grow. Without the presence of stress, we become complacent and prone to slacking.
Stress at the workplace is a source of much unhappiness and health issues. Stress is pervasive at all levels of the organization. The only difference lies in the ability to manage stress and use it positively. It is noticed that line workers are less capable of controlling stress as compared to higher level executives and managers. Perhaps, this is on account of rigorous training and development given to those in higher positions.
Workplace stress arises from the following factors:
• Unrealistic deadlines and too much of workload
• Regular overtime
• Reporting to more than one boss
• Stagnancy in the job, no growth or promotions
• No increments in salary at regular intervals
• Inattention from supervisors and managers
• Strained relations between co-workers
Even relationships do not escape the onslaught of stress. Lack of communication, health problems, financial worries, infidelity and suspicion are some of the relationship stressors. Many marriages and relationships break up because of uncontrolled stress.
Stress Management is essential if we want to let go of stress and lead productive lives.
Stress Management at the Workplace: The prosperity of an organization depends on its workforce. Therefore, the management should take proper precautions to minimize stress at the workplace.
o Workers should not be burdened with unreasonable workloads and unrealistic deadlines.
o Incentive schemes and perquisites should be provided to reward good performance.
o Yearly appraisals and increments in salary should be made.
o Informal interaction between managers and workers and between peers should be encouraged.
o The job should not be monotonous as monotony kills enthusiasm and excitement.
o Group activities like meetings and discussions help kill the drudgery of life at work.
o Intimidation by supervisors should be replaced with constructive criticism and honest feedback
Stress Management through Assertive Communication: Assertiveness can be a great stress buster. It is surprising that most of the stress in our lives is caused because of our inability to communicate effectively. People who have conquered the art of assertive communication are less likely to get into arguments thereby reducing stress. Aggression breeds aggression. It puts people on the defensive and makes them less likely to listen to reason. Passivity on the other hand conveys a lack of strength and will power. Assertive communication can help to a large extent in keeping stress at bay. It helps us get what we want without coming across as overbearing and domineering. Assertive Communication helps in keeping stress at arms length by avoiding conflict through reasoning and direct communication.
For additional information about effective stress management, anger management, and assertive communication skills, along with tools to increase your emotional intelligence call the Anger Management Institute of Texas 281-477-9105 or visit http://www.ami-tx.com.
Anger Management Institute of Texas is a certified Anderson & Anderson ® provider.
Anger Management Classes and Anger Management – Executive Coaching available in Houston, Texas.
Gregory A. Kyles, M.A., LPC, CEAP, CAMF
Director, Anger Management Institute of Texas
Diplomate, President of Texas Chapter
American Association of Anger Management Providers
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