Our job environment plays a big role in our overall job satisfaction. Because of the current job scarcity, more individuals are prone to stay at a job where they are overqualified, underpaid, and more likely than not, very stressed. The option of quitting before another job is secured is less viable these days, which can make a person not only stressed, but also somewhat hopeless. Below are some tips to ease some of the stress of such an environment.

FOCUS YOUR ENERGY ELSEWHERE

Self care is incredibly important. Make time for yourself in the form of exercise or hobbies. This can reduce the stress you feel in general, and impact how you respond to stress at work. Making plans to do something good for yourself will also add structure to your day, which will help in setting boundaries between your personal and professional life. In addition, taking on hobbies and exercises with goals can contribute to a sense of progress and achievement.

TAKE BREAKS

Employees are afforded breaks during the work day, but not everyone takes advantage of them. Stepping to the bathroom to wash your face, or even finding a quiet corner to breathe deeply for 30 seconds can improve your mood and help you think more clearly.

STEP BACK

While there is always pressure in the workplace, it may be difficult to see how much pressure is coming from the work environment, and how much pressure you're putting on yourself. If you find yourself getting frazzled and upset, step back to evaluate what part of that is unnecessary pressure that you are putting on yourself. Stepping back can also help in prioritizing. Better organization can lead to less stress. Keeping in mind to step back from intense situations with bosses and coworkers will be beneficial in figuring out appropriate responses and solutions instead of being at the mercy of knee jerk reactions.

CHANGE YOUR MINDSET/FIND ENJOYMENT

Our negative thoughts influence how we feel and consequently act and react. Putting issues in perspective can lessen the intensity of this negativity. In addition, finding in enjoyment in even one aspect of your job or job environment can help you focus on the positive. Sometimes we get to a place where we can't see the positive. Make a list of three things that you enjoy about your job or the three enjoyable things that the job affords you.

BUILD SUPPORT

We are social creatures and rely on interaction with others. Venting with coworkers and finding collaborative solutions is more effective than being upset and withdrawing. Additionally, you might learn some tips on existing in such an environment, especially from those who have seniority and figured out their own ways of coping.

Advice Bum is Moshe Ben-Yosef, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in private practice with offices in Los Angeles and the San Gabriel Valley. Moshe is currently offering free initial phone consultation, more information about his services can be found at www.YourPersonalTherapy.com.