Having a stressful day at work can be exotic. You must have experienced one of those days, where something is just off, not in the mood to do anything and everything seems difficult. These are the days when productivity is extremely low, and you become irritable or exhausted.
It is very normal to sometimes experience bad days at work, but it is important to have measures you can apply when the going gets tough. This article discusses different methods you can use to get through a rough day.
Take It Home
Depending on the job you are doing, this might not be an option. Having that in mind, more industries and occupations allow people to work from home, at least sometimes. As much as it is an ordinary measure, it can be an excellent way to handle a rough day at work.
You should only take a day off when things are out of hand. If your job allows you to work from home, get away from the office environment and decompress. Do everything you should do in your office while at home. Sometimes, all you need is a change of environment to feel better.
Stop and Write a List
The idea of writing a list might sound stressful especially if you are having a bad day at work, but it can be very helpful. When you are too busy or feeling stressed out at work, consider stopping everything, and writing a list. This is a list of your top priorities for the day. You can write it on a paper or your phone.
There are two benefits of writing this list: first, you can give yourself a sensible plan of attack for remainder of the day, and second, you get to disengage for a few minutes from the actual work. This method is particularly important if your job involves a lot of brainstorming.
It is almost impossible for your brain to think properly if you are stressed out. Taking a break from this activity will greatly help your mental health.
Try Breathing Techniques
This is a very common method, and it can easily be the most effective one. When things get tough at work, take a break and have a deep breath. Irritation and anger can prevent you from making sensible and logical decisions.
Breathing can help reduce your anger emotions and distress. There are various breathing techniques such deep breathing and alternate nostril breathing. These breathing techniques can help you ease away from the frustration and anger that come with high pressure.
You will feel more relaxed and in control even when under a lot of pressure.
Let It Out
It is understandable that you don’t want to complain too much, and probably not say anything at all to your boss and other superiors. There is, however, no harm in letting people know that you are not having a good day.
You can open up to your colleague during lunch break, or if it is allowed, have a chat with them on your work computer. You can also call your friend and let your frustrations out. It is even better if you have cheerful friends who can boost your mood.
A conversation with anyone of them could get you back in a productive mode.
Treat Yourself
If you are having a rough day at work, you can briefly excuse yourself and go have a treat. You can go eat some snacks or have a cup of coffee. The idea is getting away from your work environment when feeling depressed or stressed. You can spend some time in the common room or grab a coffee down the street. This is a much needed break, and it can tramendously change your mood.
Prioritize Self-care
When overloaded with work, is important to be compassionate and kind to yourself. You might be too obsessed with getting the job done that totally forget about yourself. When you are drained or spend long hours at work, it is easy to neglect self-care.
You can easily forget that you are missing out on important personal effects. Simple activities such as having meals, listening to soothing music, washing your face, or dressing properly can have a significant impact on your ability to successfully go through a difficult day.
No matter the workload, it is essential that you take care of yourself. Your mental health is likely to improve if you are feeling confident about yourself.
Conclusion
It is very common to have stressful days at work. Your productivity levels depend on your general state and how you are coping with the day. If you find it rough, use the tips discussed in this article for a possible change.
