3 tips for minimising workplace stress

Unsurprisingly, stress causes employees to suffer from lower engagement, higher absenteeism and, therefore, reduced productivity.

Research from professional services firm Tower Watson found that over half (57 per cent) of the employees who reported feeling stress also agreed they were disengaged, compared to just 10 per cent of the respondents who experienced low stress levels.

With this in mind, it is easy to see how the ability to minimise stress can be one of the most vital leadership skills when working as a manager. Here are three methods you can use for reducing stress in the workplace and achieving higher productivity:

Buy some plants

If you work in an office environment, you may want to invest in a large number of leafy, green pot plants.

A study from the University of Queensland’s School of Psychology found that plants in the office can help improve employees’ physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. This leads to increased job satisfaction and boosts productivity by 15 per cent.

Set realistic and flexible goals

While ambition is good, setting the bar too high is only likely to lead to stress.

Researchers from the University of British Columbia, Vancouver and Concordia University, Montreal worked together on a study on what happens when people set goals that they did not reach.

The team found that not only can failing to achieve a goal be disheartening, but it can also have serious implications for your health. This is due to elevated levels of CRP (C-reactive protein), which indicates inflammation. Over time, chronic levels of inflammation heighten the risk of many diseases including diabetes, osteoporosis and heart disease, which shows just how important minimising stress can be.

Avoid interruptions

While a regular catch-up meeting might belay your anxiety about the team’s progress, your employees are likely to suffer from the constant interruptions.

Researchers in Germany found that disruptions in the workplace have a negative effect on an individual’s satisfaction with his or her own performance. Additionally, interruptions cause employees to forget their intentions and lose productivity as they try to re-find their place.

This is why it is important to support a focused workplace – minimise the unnecessary meetings and enjoy the benefits of a happier and more productive team.