Do you deal with work stress as a working mom? Most days, I come home mentally and emotionally spent from my job at a school. I haven’t managed my stress well in the past, so eight hours of stimulus and negativity wear me down.
5 Ways to Manage Work Stress
This summer I’ve reflected on my mistakes and thought of five ways to proactively manage my stress this year. Here’s my list:
- Start with a positive mindset.
On my morning commute, I will pray over my upcoming day. I can listen to Christian radio at my desktop, which helps me focus on faith throughout the day. I purchased a lovely illustration of a favorite scripture from gracelaced.com (pictured below) to keep me accountable for my thoughts and words—you can purchase similar prints here.
- Use a journal to vent.
Rather than running to my coworker to vent, which too often turns into griping, I will jot frustrations in a journal. Then I can weigh their importance and decide whether I need to consult with someone else or simply let them go.
- Find a physical outlet.
Since the school bells ring every hour, I will use them as reminders to get up and walk around a bit. That activity will also give my eyes a break from the computer screen. I have noticed my own children grumble less once they get moving—surely it’s true for me too.
- Don’t contribute to problems.
When gossip starts, it’s tempting for me to get sucked in and drown in the negativity. I can stop entering the discussion by not asking detailed questions, and I can redirect the conversation or walk away if gossip occurs. The gossip will no longer head in my direction if I don’t listen or participate.
- Choose my battles.
When conflict arises, I usually don’t address it, but the tension burns me up inside for hours. This year I plan to be more direct. I don’t have to be rude or ugly, but I need to be direct for my own good. I can say something like, “That comment was out of line, and I don’t appreciate being spoken to that way.” Even if the offender dismisses me or doesn’t apologize, I will know I’ve done all I can to confront the problem.
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Questions for you:
What are your stress management techniques for work?
How can you turn to your faith in stressful moments at work?
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