There’s one challenge that all public relations practitioners face at some point: stress. It’s not surprising that being a PR executive was listed as the sixth most stressful job by Forbes in 2014. With its demanding deadlines, long hours and need to manage expectations of multiple clients, stress is something that naturally comes along with the profession.
I would be lying if I said I don’t secretly enjoy the pressure that comes with working in this industry. I would be bored without it, and I’m sure many of my fellow PR professionals would agree. However, how you handle that stress is extremely important. Becoming overwhelmed by it isn’t just bad for your productivity, but also for your health.
Next time you’re feeling anxious in the office, try incorporating these tips into your daily routine to help reduce stress and restore some tranquility.
- Breathe. When we feel nervous or stressed, we tend to take shallow, quick breaths, which only exaggerates the problem. Instead, focus on taking deep breaths, completely filling your lungs. Bringing more oxygen into your body helps lower your heart rate and stabilize your blood pressure, allowing you to feel calmer.
- Ask for help. Don’t be afraid to ask for assistance when you’re overwhelmed. While many of us are hesitant to tell our managers that our workloads are too heavy, having an impossible to-do list will only lead to mistakes and more stress. Asking for help shows that you care about the quality of your work and that you are able to set realistic expectations.
- Organize your workspace. I always joke with my friends and family that you can tell how stressed I am at work by the condition of my desk. The crazier my schedule and deadlines are, the more unorganized my workspace becomes. However, clutter on your desk makes stress worse. Take a few minutes out of each day to keep your belongings and files organized. When I’m organized, I find myself feeling more relaxed and productive.
- Stay positive. Having negative, self-defeating thoughts distracts you from your work, drains your energy and increases your stress levels. If you can shift your mindset to a more positive outlook, it will be easier to tackle those tough situations. While this may be easier said than done, taking gradual steps to train your brain to think positively can make a huge difference.
- Take care of yourself. High amounts of stress can make you physically sick. Even when your to-do list is jam-packed, make sure you take the time to eat well, exercise, get enough sleep and find some personal time for yourself. If you’re sick, go to the doctor. You won’t be able to produce quality work if you’re not well.
Keeping stress at bay requires awareness, commitment and the desire to make self-care a priority. But by taking the necessary steps to maintain a relaxed, focused and positive mindset, the results it yields will be well worth the effort.
What other tips do you have for managing stress at work?