Manage stress at work 147
Initiatives like these need to be led from the very top of the organi-
sation to have the credibility they need, to succeed.
Actively find and resolve problems
Problem solving is a large area, but making it a part of a new
culture requires three vital things:
1 Establish processes for data collection.
2 Use structured analysis to find and address root causes.
3 Bring together diverse teams to plan and carry out remedial
actions.
Create a wellbeing culture
The gold standard for a non-stressing workplace is one with a
‘wellbeing culture’ where staff are encouraged to take care of
themselves, and their employer provides the resources to support
them. Corporate gyms and relaxation rooms, on-site counsellors
and masseurs all seem like an indulgence. But in some environ-
ments the reduction in absences and illness, and the increase in
productivity and customer service can bring bottom-line results
that more than pay for the investment and running costs. This
will require a business case.
You may not need to go quite so far, to maximise a sense of
wellbeing by prioritising health, tness and relaxation. Just
creating opportunities for exible working and offering shower
facilities for people who want to ride or run to work, or exercise
at lunchtime, are a big start. You may then be able to offer some
social, exercise or therapeutic resources, or consider subsidising
their costs or giving over some working time to social activities.
Protecting yourself from stress at work
What can you do to protect yourself from the stresses and strains
of a managerial role? Let’s look at three major stressors for a
typical manager.