Managing Stress with Mindfulness
Author: Tashania Morris
Studies reveal that job stress is a major source of stress for Americans (Schaufenbuel, 2014). Workers are constantly battling with heavy workloads and high expectation to get the job done. According to stress.org, “80% of workers feel stress on the job, nearly half say they need help in learning how to manage stress and 42% say their coworkers need such help” (https://www.stress.org/workplace-stress). The rise of stress-related problems in the workplace has a negative impact on the organization, which can result in absenteeism and loss of productivity. When someone is stressed at work, it affects their level of confidence, they are more irritable, and they are not as engaged as they use to be. They might be preoccupied with the thoughts and emotions that they are unable to control. While the nature of some jobs is inherently stressful, there are things that can be put in place to help workers deal with stress at work.
Effects of Being Mindful
Being mindful is simply being present. It involves your entire physical and mental being. It also involves brain training. Organizations can provide individuals with the training and resources they need to become more mindful at work. According to the white paper, “The Business Case for Mindfulness”, integrating mindfulness in the workplace is good for business, as it:
- Reduces employee absenteeism and turnover
- Improves cognitive functions (such concentration, memory, and learning ability)
- Increases employee productivity
- Enhances employer/employee and client relationships
- Improves job satisfaction
(Schaufenbuel, 2014)
Becoming mindful at work
Listed below are things that can be done to help you become more mindful at work:
- Become self-aware
- Meditate
- Express Gratitude
- Slow Down
- Take breaks
We live in an age where people wear busy as a badge of honor. Taking time to simply slow down and take a break might be the mental relief your brain needs to recharge and refresh. Imagine having a car and never changing your oil, over time it would reap serious consequences. It’s the same with the human body. Organizations should think about incorporating mindfulness programs at work. Encouraging work/life balance and meditation is always a great way to incorporate mindfulness at work.
UCLA Mindful Awareness Research Center: http://marc.ucla.edu/mindful-meditations
Bringing Mindfulness to the Workplace: https://unc.live/2cc3NIG
Bibliography
https://www.stress.org/workplace-stress (n.d.). Retrieved from The American Institute of Stress: https://www.stress.org/workplace-stress/
Schaufenbuel, K. (2014). Bringing Mindfulness to the Workplace. UNC Executive Development. Retrieved from http://www.kenan-flagler.unc.edu/~/media/Files/documents/executive-development/unc-white-paper-bringing-mindfulness-to-the-workplace_final.pdf