OfficiaNet - Knowledge Base
Stress ManagementStress is usually defined as “the adverse reaction people have to excessive pressure or other types of demand placed on them”, forces from the outside world affecting the individual. Stress in the WorkplaceStress can be particularly damaging for owner-managers and self-employed individuals. It can also be potentially damaging to your staff, and therefore to your business. Though pressure can often be a great motivator, enabling both yourself and your staff to perform effectively, too much pressure can have a negative effect, with stress leading to an increase in sickness absences and increase staff turnover. Employers have a legal duty to ensure employees aren't made ill by their work. This includes taking steps to prevent physical and mental illness brought about by stress. These steps need not cost a lot of money and the benefits can be significant. Dealing with StressThe best strategy for avoiding stress is to learn how to relax. Unfortunately, the majority of people try to relax at the same pace that they lead the rest of their lives, and although taking time out to participate in social or sport activities will help, the issues that are actually causing the stress need to be addressed. Sport, from walking to golf, squash to football, is a useful tool for combating stress. Stress prepares our bodies for fight or flight, priming you for action, so using that energy helps to disipate the stress hormones and neurochemicals. |