Stress is a normal part of the corporate world. In small amounts, it can even compel people to work harder and smarter. Employees are expected to churn out high-quality work in record time, and the need for speed has defined the way we do business. However, we’re in the midst of an unseen epidemic among young professionals.
With people forced to workfrom home, anxiety and stress are on the rise. However, we’re not just talking about your run-of-the-mill fatigue. White-collar professionals are breaking down from emotional exhaustion. To say that people are tired would be a massive understatement.
Blaming the pandemic won’t solve the problem. Many of these professionals may not realize that they’re in the early to mid-stages of debilitating anxiety. Prolonged confinement, the lack of social contact, a deteriorating home situation, and increasing responsibilities have created a toxic situation for many people.
Stress, if left unchecked, could have physical and emotional repercussions. In normal times, one can go to a therapist or medical professional to seek help. Lock-down measures have removed that safety net, leaving people to fend for themselves. The social stigma surrounding mental health issues has prevented people from getting help. No one bats an eye if you see a car accident chiropractor, but going to a therapist might get people talking.
Here are a few wellness strategies that will help keep emotional burnout at bay.
1. Focus on your needs
Burnout happens when you forget to prioritize your needs. You shouldn’t feel guilty about putting your wellness first, especially if your physical and mental health are on the line. By ignoring the signs of burnout, you could also jeopardize your career. After all, you’re not doing anyone any favors if your work performance is slipping. Your top priority should be to ensure that you’re feeling comfortable and well-rested at all times.
Small acts now could have a bigger effect down the line. If the occasional mental health day can prevent an extended forced leave of absence, then, by all means, take the day off. Even something as simple as taking a stroll around the neighborhood can do wonders for your mind and body. Allow your body to rest and recharge after a long day working at home.
2. Improve your financial health
An increase in financial obligations is a big source of anxiety for many people. Add to that the uncertainty of our situation and the long list of stressors you’re already facing, your anxiety could trigger physical illnesses that might exacerbate your already dire situation.
One way to get your life in order is to improve your financial health. Having a high income doesn’t preclude you from finance-induced stress. If you don’t know where your money is going or if you’re not managing your finances properly, you could still end up with crippling anxiety.
Start by tracking your expenses and organizing your financial transactions. If you don’t have a budget, create one and make sure you’re not living beyond your means. You’ll feel better once you’ve taken control of your spending and financial situation.
3. Clean your workspace
Working at home doesn’t give you a free pass to be a slob. Just because there’s no one around to watch you doesn’t mean you can adopt a casual attitude towards cleanliness and hygiene. Studies show that excessive clutter can affect your work performance and even increase your stress. Keeping your workspace clean can go a long way towards improving your physical and emotional health.
Start by cleaning and decluttering your workspace, whether it’s an office or a single desk. Your workspace should be dedicated to working, so make sure to remove any distractions. Once you’ve cleaned up your office, you can then proceed to the rest of your home.
Target the most important areas such as the kitchen, the bathroom, and your bedroom. If you can’t or don’t want to clean your home, consider hiring a cleaning service to take care of the mess for you. I guarantee you’ll feel more relaxed and comfortable if your surroundings are clean and free of clutter.
The bottom line
Climbing the corporate ladder is already difficult enough without dealing with emotional exhaustion, and it often feels like you’re fighting a losing battle. These three wellness strategies can help keep emotional burnout at bay. Anxiety and stress often stem from the loss of control, so make it a point to take charge whenever possible.
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