Work can be stressful sometimes, and that is normal. When the stress becomes excessive, it can impact various aspects of your life, including your:
- Physical health
- Mental health
- Work performance
- Home life
- Relationships
You may not be able to control every factor in your workplace, but you are not powerless. There are many steps you can take to relieve your workplace anxiety, improve your well-being and become more satisfied with your job.
Identify your stressors
The first step is to figure out exactly what is creating the most stress for you. According to the American Psychological Association, the most common causes of workplace stress include:
- Excessive workloads
- Low wages
- Inadequate opportunities for advancement
- Unclear expectations
Additionally, any instances of discrimination or harassment are certainly going to make you feel uncomfortable. Track these triggers in a journal. Recording the events, situations and people who cause you to have negative feelings will help you know how to resolve the problems.
Create boundaries
It is tempting to make yourself available for your employer all the time, especially in this digital world. But it is vital to separate your work life from your home life. Consider making rules like not checking your email when you are home in the evening, or refusing to answer phone calls while eating dinner. Establishing some clear boundaries between your home and work life can help you reduce stress.
Discuss the problems with your supervisor
Not only does an unhealthy work environment affect you personally, but it also has an impact on your productivity. This gives your boss another reason to care about what you experience. If you have specific complaints regarding harassment, discrimination or some other form of mistreatment, make sure you get a written report made. Depending on how your supervisor responds to your complaints, you may need to go further and file an administrative charge or lawsuit.