In recent years, the impact stress has on employees and those in leadership roles has gained exponential attention by researchers and practitioners. The symptoms of long-term exposure to stress are not always obvious. Headaches, insomnia, muscle aches, restlessness, and depression are just a few of the side effects of stress. The long-term health effects of high blood pressure, heart disease, and obesity contribute to the increased concern many organizations have regarding the health of their employees. These effects impact the physical body, mood, and even behavior leading to decreased productivity, increased sick days, and lower employee life and job satisfaction.

Leaders: Improving Productivity Through Stress Reduction

  1. Swap to-do lists with priority lists
  • Priority lists contain tasks that have a personal or professional impact and are ordered by importance whereas to-do lists contain everything that needs to be done
  1. Share your lists with others
  • Allow others to see what you’re doing, they’re more likely to relate their requests with your priorities
  1. Shared responsibility
  • Avoid micromanaging
  • Your job is NOT to do everything
  1. Include personal priorities
  • Find personal purpose and meaning by putting your work role into broader context

 

 

 

 

Sources: https://www.ccl.org/multimedia/podcast/stress-busters-tips-for-dealing-with-the-stress-of-leadership/