Easing Workplace Stress: Strategies for a Healthier Work Environment

What do we look for in a good job? Benefits? Location? Salary? These are, of course, wonderful aspects to pay attention to while looking for a place to work, but ultimately what makes or breaks a job is the work environment.

You may be in a well-paid position that's about a 10-minute drive from home, but dread going into the office everyday because of issues with co-workers. Or maybe you have a manager or boss who is demeaning and does not support you and your professional goals. The key to high performance and job satisfaction is the creation of a healthy work environment.

What Is a Healthy Work Environment?

The best types of workplaces are ones that encourage creative, social, professional, and traditional goals. They are accepting and supportive of individuality and innovation. You should never be made to feel that your work ethic is not good enough.

It's important that a work environment makes you feel safe and welcome. Co-workers and managers are there for collaboration, not competition. When the work stress starts to get high, positive workplaces will allow you time off and be flexible with your schedule. Organizations should never discriminate based on race, gender, sexuality, religion, or beliefs, but rather accept individuals of all backgrounds.

Strategies to Build a Healthier Work Environment

1. Feedback

Giving and receiving feedback is the best way to improve your personal work as well as your environment. It is likely that you will receive feedback from your boss or manager, and it is important to listen and apply their critiques.

However, you as an employee may also provide feedback to how someone is running the organization. Vocalize your thoughts and opinions respectfully, and if you feel wronged or mistreated in any way, let them know.

2. Show Appreciation

A positive mindset will ultimately change the way you view your surroundings. No matter the stress of the work load or the frustrations of the day, try to identify one thing you appreciated throughout the day.

Acknowledge the help you received from a co-worker, or give praise to an employee who did great work. Be proud of yourself and the work you did as well. Identify and appreciate the little things you do daily.

3. Communication

Be vocal about your wants and needs in a workplace. If you feel you are not meeting professional goals, speak up. If you feel you need extra assistance on a project, ask for help. Effective communication can promote healthy collaboration with co-workers and enhance the work community.

Try not to stay quiet if there is something about your work environment that is upsetting you. Talk to the appropriate people about any workplace issues, especially if discrimination or harassment are at play. Know your worth and communicate your expectations.

4. Stress Management

Self-care and stress management is extremely important, and can even help mange the stresses of the work environment. Work stays at work; try not to bring it home. After work hours should be used for relaxation, fun activities, and social connection.

Take tine for yourself so you are refreshed and recharged to start work again in the morning. Managing your stress overall will help handle any work environmental issues.

5. Professional Help

We can all use some extra help when it comes to managing stress and emotions. Seeking help from a mental health professional can help ease the stresses in daily living and ultimately improve your work environment.

Therapists can help you with communication while also assisting with discovering your career passions. If you are experiencing burn out from your job and want help with improving your workplace, reach out and schedule a session today for therapy for professionals.