De-stressing at work!

Here are some of the important de-stress mechanisms that can help you bounce back to your health!

* To begin with take a few deep breaths, allowing your rib cage and belly to expand as you inhale.
* Exhale slowly.
* Seek a change in venue.
* Getting away from your work station, even for a walk to the water cooler, can help you collect your thoughts and refocus on the task at hand.
* Laugh! Read one of your favorite jokes or simply laugh aloud.
* Play with a stress-relieving toy or game like a mini-basketball hoop, dart board, foam stress ball or punching bag.
* Close your eyes and listen to soothing music.
* Visualize yourself relaxing at your favorite vacation spot or completing the big presentation with ease.
* Add helpful reminders to your screen saver, such as, "Take a deep breath," or add a phrase or joke that makes you laugh.

Watch out!

* Use good judgment and know what is appropriate for your workplace.
* Work Efficiently
* Keep your desk and your files organized to avoid wasting time shuffling through piles of paper.
* Go through your inbox at the beginning of each work day. Either throw away, file or follow up on each item.
* Prioritize a list of the tasks you need to accomplish that day.
* Delegate tasks to co-workers and assistants if possible.
* Finish one task before you go on to the next.
* Have someone else answer your phone if possible. Give instructions about calls you wish to take and those that can be returned later.
* Communicate effectively and plan carefully to make sure a job is done properly the first time around.
* Schedule time when you'll be available, and let colleagues know, to avoid constant interruptions.
* Close the door if you need to.
* Take breaks. A short walk or quick lunch away from the office will increase your overall productivity.
* Before leaving for the day, tidy up your desk and make a short list of projects you will need to do the next day.
* Try not to take work home. You need the break.
* Determine when you have most energy in a day and tackle the most important or most difficult tasks at that time.
* Recognize that certain days (usually Monday or Friday) are more hectic than others. Be realistic when scheduling those days.
* Exercise and a healthy diet boost your energy level and increase your productivity.
* If you get completely snowed under, hire an assistant from a temp agency to get you through the crunch.