Your job can kill you – literally. Work is one of the major sources of stress in our lives, and it can get overwhelming if 
you don’t take the proper steps and precautions. Thankfully, there are plenty of simple things you can do to reduce work-related stress and increase your productivity. Try the following stress-reduction tips to clear your mind and recharge.
1. Prioritize. Lack of preparation/organization can turn your workday from tolerable to hectic in a second. If you have several deadlines looming, take a deep breath and write everything out. Then, prioritize. Finish the tasks with closer deadlines first and then move on from there. No matter how tempting it might be to procrastinate, you’re just setting yourself up for more stress in the end if you do.
2. Get closer to your coworkers. You’re stuck with your coworkers all day, so you might as well get to know them better. Being good terms with them can help defuse conflicts in the future, which means less stress. Having them around for support can also help reduce the stressful work environment. It pays to be social.
3. Take a vacation. Don’t let your Paid Time Off pile up. If you feel like you need a breather, take a vacation. You don’t have to go anywhere – you can just stay at home and read a book. We have a tendency to slave away at work without taking some “me” time when we most need – and deserve – it. So put in your vacation request and go somewhere… or just sleep in. You deserve it.
4. Check if your company offers health incentives. Some employers offer their workers a significant gym discount, so see if your employer offers any type of wellness program or perks that can help you reduce stress. Working out during your lunch break can help you not only relax, but also burn some extra calories during the day. You can even benefit by simply going outside the office for a quick walk. Stepping outside of the workplace for a few moments may be enough to help you clear your mind.
5. Listen to music. Hearing your favorite songs during the workday can make the day go by much faster. There are plenty of free online streaming services like Pandora, Rdio and Spotify that you can sign up for. You may also be able to store music on your phone so you can listen at your own convenience. Just be sure you know your employers’ policies before you start blaring music everywhere – you don’t want to get in trouble and create even more stress for yourself.
6. Find a new job. Yes, this is easier said than done. But if you’re stuck in a toxic work environment, this might be the radical change you need to get your mental health back on track. After all, if your boss is a complete jerk, it’s likely he’s going to stay that way. Start looking for other opportunities in your field. If you haven’t searched for a job in a while, you might be surprised at what great positions are available out there.
Geoffrey Anderson is editor of MenScience Magazine, a men’s skincare and nutrition blog. MenScience Androceuticals sells premium skincare and nutrition products for men to be healthy and look great.
