In these crazy COVID times, uncertainty and unfamiliarity can compound on the already stressful lives we live. Feeling overwhelmed while working at home can present itself in many different ways. You may be on edge, testy, exhausted, and have physical aches and pains from the stress you are feeling.
While it may seem like there is no end in sight, there are many strategies that can help you stop feeling so overwhelmed. In fact, as soon as you are able to identify these signs you should address them in order to avoid the severe mental and physical effects of prolonged stress.
10 effective ways to deal with overwhelming feelings at work include:
- Make a to-do list the night before of all the things you need to get done the next day. Try to keep your list attainable with just 3 – 5 items. Don’t worry, there’s always tomorrow for anything that doesn’t get finished.
- Stop multitasking and focus on one thing at a time. Once that task is complete, move on to the next one.
- Learn to delegate and ask for help when you need it. Good delegation skills can go a long way in decreasing stress from work overload.
- Keep your work area tidy to help minimize stress from clutter.
- Turn on some calming music to help relieve anxiety.
- Take breaks throughout the day to give yourself time to recharge. Whether it’s a short 5 minute break or an hour long break you take mid-day, giving yourself a mental and physical break can help greatly if you are feeling overwhelmed.
- Confide in other people with your problems and work stressors. Share your thoughts and feelings with someone you trust to help take the load off.
- Don’t forget to keep moving and engaging in physical activity, regardless of how easy (and preferable) it is to stay sedentary. Go for a run, or even a walk, to help boost your mood and relieve anxiety.
- Make sure to get out and socialize in order to avoid feelings of stress that result from isolation.
- End your day as you would at the office by shutting down your computer and signalling to yourself that the workday is over.
Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, worried you’re on the road to it or just looking to relieve some everyday stress from your job, these tips can help you relax, recharge and reduce anxiety while working at home or in the office.