Some weeks ago, I outlined some causes of work related stress and how to identify if you are experiencing stressed. You can read about that here.

Today, I am going to share some strategies and tips on dealing with work related stress.

Like I mentioned before, some level of stress in any mum’s life is normal (this level would vary from mum to mum) but once that level crosses an acceptable stage, it could be disastrous to you, your health and your relationships.

Once we notice the symptoms described under Work Related stress, it is time to take action. In fact using these tips I show can help you avoid getting stressed out.

Here are some tips I use in dealing with workplace stress (in no particular order) which works for me.

Tips on Dealing With Work related Stress

As soon as I notice I am stressed, one of the first things I do is to stop whatever I am doing, if possible, and take a long walk.

Walk

This tend to clear my mind, gets me away from all the distractions and noise. It also provides an opportunity for blood to circulate all over my body especially my head and this calms me down.

Walking isn’t always possible especially if it is during winter so finding a quiet place to sit for a few minutes to gather my thoughts proves helpful.

Watch your thoughts!

Are my thoughts constantly around stress and how stressed I am or going to be? Then it is no surprise that I would feel stressed!

Our thoughts reflect in our actions. I dispel any negative stressful thoughts going through my mind and replace them with positive thoughts. I repeat to myself “this too shall pass” or “I will overcome this”.

I don’t always remember to do this, especially if I am already in panic mode but as soon as I remember I consciously watch my thoughts.

Don’t sweat the small stuff

I remind myself not to sweat the small stuff. Ever since reading the book “Don’t sweat the small stuff at work” by the late Dr. Richard Carlson, my perspective on life changed. I ask myself “will what I am stressed about be important in the next 2 years? (any number will do actually)”. If no, I remind myself to take it easy!

Pinpoint the source!

Another thing I do is to try to pinpoint the source of my stress. Something must have triggered it, once I can determine the source then I am on the right path with dealing with work related stress.

Review workload

If my workload is too much and causes me stress I talk to my manager about it. My manager has an obligation to discuss my workload, prioritise and reduce my workload where necessary.

Have a to do list

I map out a to do list. A to do list is a simple yet very powerful and effective way of managing your tasks and stress levels. I have realised that when all I do is think about the numerous things I have to do, they feel much more complex than they usually are and this tends to stress me out.

Once I write them down they are not often as bad as they appeared in my mind. By noting them down I can evaluate and prioritise my office tasks instead of worrying about them.

Not only do I write out a to do list, I make sure I do what is on the list! No point writing them down for the sake of it. There is a sense of accomplishment felt as I tick off completed tasks on my to do list knowing they are done and dusted.

Know when and how to say no.

Saying no is not a very easy thing to do but is an indispensable skill every working mum must have if she want to manage stress and have peace of mind. Being assertive in the workplace and at home is very essential and will be discussed in detail later on. Need strategies on how to say no, click the link for more info.

Develop sincere rapport

With colleagues both senior, peers and junior. You don’t have to be best of friends with your colleagues at work but it is advantageous if you have a good working relationship with them to provide the network you will need at work.

I have found that I don’t always have the knowledge to do my tasks, but a colleague of mine might just know someone who knows someone who has the background knowledge I need – get the picture?

I endeavour to go for team events even if it is outside working hours when I can. I am also willing to help my colleagues when they need help with their work if it is within your expertise. You know, “pay it forward”. If I help others, I will be helped, it is a natural law. Also having a work buddy at work goes a long way in dealing with workplace stress.

Drink lots of water 

At least 2litres a day. Stress could be as a result of dehydration. I usually have a bottle of water at my desk that I sip on regularly. When I finish drinking the water in my bottle, that is a good chance for me to take a break to get some more water!

Eat healthy

Healthy eating cannot be over emphasised. Junk food does no good for my stress levels.

Pray

When I pray I am able to cast all my worries and cares to God my Father because I trust in him to handle any situation that is stressing me. This also gives me a sense of calm and reassurance that HE has given me wisdom to do my tasks at work.

Improve work environment conditions

Try to improve your working environment conditions and make it comfortable for you. Change whatever needs to be changed. Most organisations have an occupational health department. Contact them if necessary.

Speak to a therapist

If you find it difficult dealing with work related stress, it might be necessary for you to speak to a therapist. A therapist can coach you on stress coping techniques.

Don’t take work home!

I always make it a conscious effort not to take anything work related back home. Whatever happens at work should stay at work. Tomorrow is another day to face work head on. I concentrate on loving my family and being the best wife and mum I can be.

I won’t say I have master the art of dealing with work related stress completely, but I know I am on my way there!

Remember, a happy mum makes a happy home! 🙂

So mums, what are your tips on dealing with stress. Please share in the comments section. Thanks