How I Deal with Stress at Work
Without exaggeration, I interact with more than 200 people daily at work, and many of these are face-to-face conversations. Being in such a dynamic environment inevitably comes with its share of stress, anxiety, and occasional negativity. There's always someone going through a breakup, a colleague dealing with family issues, or a student feeling nervous or bored in class. Over the years, I’ve worked hard on managing my emotions, especially in professional settings. Everyone has their own methods, but here are a few strategies that have helped me immensely:
1. Start Your Day Right
How you begin your day can set the tone for everything that follows. For me, it starts with a good night’s sleep and waking up with a positive mindset. I avoid social media in the mornings, as it can clutter my mind before the day even begins. Instead, I focus on what truly matters—my tasks and plans for the day.
I typically wake up at 5:45 AM and spend a few minutes organizing my thoughts about what I want to accomplish at work. I then listen to uplifting music or motivational speeches while getting ready. These habits help charge my mind and body, giving me the energy and focus I need to perform at my best.
2. Stay Professional
In any workplace, stress is inevitable, whether it’s an awkward interaction with a colleague or an unexpected challenge in an email. I’ve come to accept that these moments are part of the job and human interaction.
One turning point for me was learning to judge others less and take things less personally. I’ve realized the importance of being professional, keeping interactions clear and honest, and focusing on the bigger picture: delivering quality education. Mistakes happen, whether they’re mine or someone else’s, and they should be met with understanding and accountability. Over time, I’ve become more patient and have learned to concentrate on my responsibilities instead of dwelling on others' actions.
3. Unwind and Recharge at Home
No matter how the day goes, some stress inevitably follows me home. That’s when I prioritize self-care. A hot shower works wonders—it feels as though the stress washes away with the water. If time allows, I take a short nap to recharge.
In the evenings, I often go for a walk, especially when the weather is pleasant. These walks are a time for self-reflection. I treat myself like a close friend, offering honest advice and thinking about how I can improve. This habit helps me grow and approach challenges more calmly.
During the week, I dedicate time to gratitude, love, and peace. Reflecting on the positives, appreciating loved ones, and finding joy in small moments make life more meaningful and help me tackle stress with a healthier mindset.
Managing stress is an ongoing journey, but these practices have helped me create a balance between work and personal life. I hope they can inspire others to find their own ways to navigate the challenges of a busy workplace.
Amin