While remote working has changed the way many people work, it hasn’t removed many of the stresses and pressure associated with work. In fact, with many people feeling side-lined through remote working, there is an argument that many people are feeling more stressed about work right now.
When you add in heightened levels of stress because of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is fair to say these are challenging times. People need to be proactive in taking better care of themselves, and employers should be looking out for their team members.
At Global Solution Services, we offer a range of training services, many of which are ideal for the remote working environment. We have training aimed at improving resilience and well-being in the workplace, and if we can be of assistance to you in this area, please get in touch.
Stress is a major problem in the workplace
The World Health Organization defines stress as the “global health epidemic of the 21st century.” According to the American based ‘Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’, a quarter of all employees consider their job to the leading cause of stress in their life.
While it is unlikely that the pace and demands of the working environment will drop, it is crucial people and businesses do more work to minimise the impact of stress in the workplace.
There has been considerable research into resilience in the workplace, and there is evidence which suggests that it is built by personal attitude, collective attitude, behavioural change and social support.
Factors which develop resilience include:
- Optimism
- A balanced outlook
- Being able to manage challenging emotions
- Having a social support system in place
- Feeling safe and secure in your actions
These outcomes can be developed, which means employers and employees can create a more productive working environment.
How to build resilience in the workplace
Employers and employees must work together to develop resilience in the workplace and to ensure employees know there is support for them.
Exercising mindfulness is a positive start, and taking a mental approach to feeling more positive in the working environment is likely to be of benefit.
Companies should also allow people to switch off and take breaks. While there are deadlines to be met, it is wrong to expect people to continually work without proper breaks. This is counter-productive and likely to lower productivity over time.
When employees take suitable breaks and return to work refreshed, they are likely to be more productive. There are studies which suggest energy cycles come in 90 minutes to two-hour shifts, and these should be utilised to help people be as productive as possible at work.
There is also a need to cultivate compassion in the workplace. When there is a sense of unity and people feel as though others are looking out for them, as well as themselves, it creates a better working environment.
If you would like to improve your time management or ensure your staff has the capabilities to manage their time, we can help. At Global Solution Services, we offer a range of remote training courses, aimed at ensuring your company moves forward during these challenging times. You can find out more about our remote training for wellbeing courses by visiting our site, or by contacting us online.
