If you're in a highly psychologically demanding job you then your risk of burn out is high. You are up to 75% more likely to suffer from anxiety or depression. Stress is the leading determinant of poor health from sleep disorders and headaches to low energy.
What can you do to find some relief from prolonged stress?
The first step that can lead to a complete turn around for you is to acknowledge your situation. Simply by accepting that you are under stress can bring great insight. It can allow you to start making the changes you need to get through.
Once you've had the insight that allows you to see your situation clearly it's time to make time for yourself. It is impossible to be of help to others unless you can learn to be kind and understanding towards yourself. Put aside time on a daily basis to fulfill your needs and your needs only.
One you've made this space for yourself there are a number of really good tools that can help you to create calm in your life. A really simple one to incorporate into a daily walk is to focus on your breathing. Whenever your mind jumps back into thinking mode bring your attention back to your breath. Keep doing this during your walk and you will feel the stress release.
Your breath can also be of help during the time stress is hitting you. You will notice as your stress levels increase your breath will become shallow, faster and you may even start to breath through your mouth without realizing. This is the time to consciously change your breathing. Take deep breaths through your nose filling your belly first then working up through your chest. Fill your lungs completely and without stopping breathe out in a continuous stream through your mouth.
With a focus on changing your perception of work analyze what you love and what you hate about your job. Identify the problem areas and one by one look for ways that you could change them. Be sure to give more focus though to the aspects of your job that you love.
It doesn't have to be perfect. Learn to accept less than perfection. Work at 90% of your capacity and be ok with it.
Finally, set your limits. Do not make yourself available 24/7. Turn off your computer and turn off your phone and give yourself the down time you need and deserve.
Roland Poitevin is a dedicated writer with a passion for business and environmental issues.
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