Part of caring for your mental health is being able to identify potential stressors before they become a problem. Being aware of the changes and challenges that will increase your stress or anxiety allows you to make a plan and feel more confident when those issues arise. Self-awareness and preparedness enable you to take better care of yourself at work and throughout the rest of your life.
Every job comes with unique challenges but there are some common workplace stressors to watch out for in any job. Learn more about a few universal professional challenges and how to overcome them with this guide.
Long Hours and Heavy Workloads
Whether it’s an annual rush or an unexpected influx of sales, every job experiences busy periods. Even if you continue to perform at your best, these busy periods create heavier workloads and longer hours that can lead to burnout if you’re not careful.
Pay attention as you rise to meet these challenges so that you can take care of yourself along the way. Recognizing the extra work you put into these busy times will help you adjust your work-life balance accordingly so that you can recharge and continue to feel energized and motivated at work.
Organizational Changes
Organizational changes such as new management or growing teams can be both exciting and stressful, even if they don’t impact your day-to-day work. Even if these changes don’t directly affect you, they can lead to confusion or uncertainty about where you stand in the company.
If you feel less comfortable or confident as a result of organizational changes, make a point of learning more about the change. Ask for or make an organizational chart to better understand the positions and workflow in your company. Request time to meet with any new managers or colleagues so that you can get to know everyone. Having this knowledge will improve your confidence and help you feel more comfortable as you navigate the changes in your office.
Transitioning To and From Remote Work
Many work environments have changed in the last few years due to both the pandemic and more accessible work-from-home options. Once again, this change can be both stressful and exciting. For some professionals, transitioning to remote work creates extra stress and feelings of isolation. For others, returning to the office after working from home can be a source of anxiety. Even if you’re fine with both options, adjusting between remote and in-office work can disrupt your professional life.
No matter where your job takes you, prepare for the changes by paying attention to your work-life balance and adjusting your schedule to make the most of your current workplace. If you’re anxious about returning to the office, come up with a plan to manage that anxiety. If you’re stressed about remote work, find ways to connect virtually with coworkers and make the most of your hours at home.
Understanding the common workplace stressors to watch out for will help you identify anxiety, tension, and pressure when it arises. The more aware you are of changes to your mental health, the easier it is to create effective solutions and take care of yourself.