If you are feeling stressed out at work, you’re not alone. In fact, the American Psychological Association found that more than one third of American workers experience chronic work stress. When it comes to life stress, cancer can definitely be one of the most significant contributors. So it stands to reason that news of a diagnosis will only exacerbate pressure and anxiety on the job.
You may not be able to control the triggers around you, such as being assigned a new project by your boss or needing to go for yet another blood test, but learning to cope with stress effectively can help you lead a healthier and more productive life.
An article on Greatist.com offers the following helpful tips for managing workplace stress:
- De-stress your body:
- Eat whole foods. Processed food can cause us to feel anxious, whereas eating whole foods and more fruits and vegetables will make your body feel energized to take on work.
- Exercise regularly. Physical activity releases stress-relieving chemicals. Therefore, stretching, walking, dancing, etc., can help you relax.
- Get enough sleep. Sleeping well can help you solve problems with a clearer mind. Aim for eight hours of sleep each night.
- De-stress your mind:
- Cultivate gratitude. Focus on what is positive in your life. Write down three things you are grateful for. This may be especially hard after a cancer diagnosis, but what your list can include things as simple as watching the sunrise or being complimented.
- Meditate regularly. Meditating may help lower blood pressure. So when your boss asks you to do something that seems daunting, take a breath, shake out your body, sit down, and meditate for five minutes.
- Learn to say “no.” We often feel obligated to say “yes” to everything so that we are well-liked. However, you can say “no.” (In fact, doing so can be especially important for people working through treatment. Click here for tips on how to set professional boundaries.
- Don’t lose sight of your purpose:
- Schedule quality social time. Hanging out with loved ones will make you feel more secure in your relationships. Make sure to leave your work phone at home and reengage with those who matter.
- Get creative. Carve out time to be creative and act like a kid!
- Get spiritual. Being overworked and stressed can cause us to lose our place in the bigger picture. Connecting through spiritual roots or meditation can give you perspective on what is stressing you — and help relieve that pressure.
To access the complete article, please click here.
For more on how to relieve stress, check out the Back to Work section of our website.
In addition, our On-the-Go Guides offer practical, time-saving advice tailored for working people with cancer. They are free and available for download or order. Each set includes three guides: nutrition, fitness and makeup.