Handling Pressure and Increasing Productivity

The pressures of a heavy workload can be counter-productive. If you're stressed, you're more likely to perform badly, which will add even more pressure to your situation. Here are five tips that might help:

1) Prioritise and focus

List your jobs in order of their priority. Carry out the most important ones first – focus purely on these (don't spend your time thinking about what you need to do next!) If possible, delegate less important tasks to others – or even eliminate some unimportant ones or fit them in when you can.

2) Take a break

Get up and walk around, or go and get a coffee just to give your mind a rest. Take time for lunch – and spend it relaxing (perhaps reading, listening to music or chatting). When you've finished for the day, imagine putting your problems in a box. Close the lid and leave it at the office - don't take it home with you!

3) Learn to unwind

Find a solution that will help you to get rid of stress when you're not working.  For instance, relax in a hot bath, read, listen to ‘mood' music, go for a walk, watch TV, go out with friends. Jot down different ideas so that you always have one or two ‘stress-busters' to aim for each day.

4 ) Express yourself

Sometimes talking through your work problems with friends or family can be therapeutic in itself. Listen to their advice. Alternatively, vent your frustration by writing your feelings down. You could also note down some personal, stress-relieving goals (e.g. have lunch away from the office twice a week).

5) Stay positive

Don't talk yourself into stress: stay positive throughout. Situations can change – but even if you don't see any improvements coming, look at the positive aspects of your work (you have a job; good colleagues; sense of achievement; financial rewards etc.) Negativity will drag you down: positivity will help you to cope.

To discuss how an executive coach can increase your effectiveness, contact

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