Preventing Work Stress

Sitting at your desk for eight hours can hurt both the brain and body, causing fatigue, lack of concentration and muscle stiffness. Fortunately, simple solutions can help resolve these common problems.

Short breaks have been shown to increase concentration and productivity, allowing you to work more efficiently. Breaks have also been linked to lower stress levels, a reduced risk of eyestrain and on-the-job-injuries, a smaller waistline, and lower triglyceride levels. Taking a break for lunch, in particular, helps you replenish your mental reserves and maintain a level metabolism.

• Get up and walk around. Go outside if conditions permit. Changing your environment can provide an immediate boost to your mood and reduce stress.
• Take a lunch break. More people today are working through lunch, but studies prove you are actually less productive when you push your brain to work straight through your workday.
• Stretch your muscles. Many websites offer simple yoga and stretching routines you can do without leaving your desk chair. These stretches help prevent soreness and the occurrence of repetitive motion injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome.

Is stress becoming business as usual? These tips can help you manage the hassles of an average work day.

• Clean your desk. Whether at the beginning or the end of the day, clearing your workspace provides a clean slate for your mind and your workload.
• Schedule smart. Working eight to 12 hours straight may make you feel more productive, but not scheduling breaks leaves you stressed and drained of energy. Complete an hour of work, then take a five-minute break.
• Move it, move it. Just 10 minutes of movement can make a difference in your mental state. Take a walk, or practice some stretches to shake loosen any knots or cramps that have formed.
• Identify and evaluate triggers. Look for tasks and events that cause stress — can you avoid or eliminate any triggers? Is the issue worth the anxiety and worry you are putting into it?
• Work from a short list. Long, comprehensive lists can seem impossible. Segment your workload into short lists of "must-do" items and those that can wait. You'll be more focused on the task at hand and more likely to finish a list by the end of the day.

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