10 stress management tips to stay focused at work

Stress can creep up in our day-to-day lives and affect how we think, feel and perform in the workplace.

Managing life stressors can support our mental health, improve productivity at work and reduce the risk of workplace conflict, injuries and accidents. A few common stressors that can affect job performance are lack of sleep, loss of a loved one, health ailments, financial obligations, prolonged periods of work stress or caring for a family member.

Identifying a few stress management tips that work for you is essential to your well-being in today's fast-paced workplaces. Here are some suggestions for how to get started:

• Identify stress triggers- Think about what major stressors you are currently experiencing. Ask yourself: What is making me anxious, frustrated or tense? Slowing down and noticing what's causing your stress is an important first step toward lowering it.

• Reframe negative thoughts- The thoughts you have and what you tell yourself about a situation play a huge role in how you feel and what you do.

• Create a prework ritual- It's common to find yourself scrambling to get things done before work. Or maybe there are days you wake up feeling the pressure of looming work demands. Kickstart your day by writing a to-do list, nourishing your body with a healthy meal or exercising.

• Choose single-tasking instead of multitasking- We often think juggling various tasks at once is key to staying productive. But single-tasking can be a more effective way to get work done. Not only does it help to reduce stress, but it also allows our brains to concentrate on one thing at a time without quickly shifting focus.

• Get involved in team-building activities- Joining colleagues in group activities can be an effective stress reliever.

• Stay active- Adding movement to our day can help us better manage our stress and improve our sleep quality.

• Develop healthy sleeping habits- Prioritizing your sleep routine will help you feel more alert and focused while at work.

• Disconnect from work at the end of the day- After a long day, taking the time to decompress can help recharge your mental batteries.

• Talk to your manager or supervisor- While it may be tough to talk about what's stressing you, opening up to your manager or supervisor may get you closer to feeling supported and having your needs met.

• Connect with a mental health expert- Consider speaking to a mental health coachor therapistabout what you are going through. A professional can offer a safe, nonjudgmental space to share your feelings, as well as helpful tools to better manage stress and anxiety at work.

People wonder how to be more productive at work, and it starts with caring for yourself. By making small changes, you can feel more in control of your mental health and show up at work in productive ways.

Join or learn more

Vanderbilt employees and their families are eligible to receive 12 counseling sessions per household member each year, at no cost to the employee.

Sign up today at vanderbilt.lyrahealth.comor call 877-804-2856.

You can view frequently asked question on the Office of Health, Well-Being and Belongingwebsite.

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