Dear Career Advisor:

My concern may seem strange but I hope you can help. I am relatively new in the job market. This is my second job, and though I love it, it is causing me a high level of stress. The work environment is very fast-paced and requires a high level of accuracy. I actually don’t have a problem with my job functions, as in my previous job I worked in a difficult situation performing well under pressure and actually loved doing so. But many days at work I feel very stressed and I fear letting my boss know for fear of being let go.What do you suggest I do?

Yours truly,

Nicky 

Dear Nicky,As the psychologists often say, stress is not always negative; a little stress can often spur increased energy, re-direct focus and propel higher levels of productivity. However, while it is normal to have some form of stress in the work environment, if it is not managed it can negatively affect your productivity and performance.From your narrative about the work situation, it does not appear that the stress you are experiencing is being caused by the job function but by other prevailing work environment factors. Here are a few tips for dealing with job and/or workplace stress:

• Track your stressLearn to identify what is triggering your stress. It might be useful to keep a journal of your activities for a few weeks. Once you have identified the source, it is easier to take steps to manage it.

• Reach out to colleaguesFind out if others are experiencing similar stress while at work and find out what strategies they use to cope.

• Seek support from family membersDon’t complain to them about your job. Instead, focus on building interaction. The assurance of their support will enhance your confidence and reduce your vulnerability to negative reaction to stress.

• Build your network of friendsSocialising with friends can help you to unwind so you are mentally better prepared each day.

• Establish boundariesEnsure that the boundaries of your job expectation and performance are clear to you, and that you give focus to doing what is expected of you.

• Learn to relaxAt the end of each workday, engage in simple activities that can help you to unwind.

• Develop a positive attitudeView your work tasks, co-workers, and environment in a positive light.

• Exercise regularly. This includes taking short breaks at work.

• Adopt healthy eating habits

• Get adequate rest and sleep If after trying the strategies above you find that you are still experiencing the same level of stress at work then it could be time to seek professional help as well as talk with your supervisor.All the best.

Sincerely,

Career Advisor

Carolyn Marie Smith is associate vice-president of student services at Northern Caribbean University in Mandeville, Manchester. Submit your questions to her at careeradvisor@ncu.edu.jm