What are workplace stressors and how to manage these?

Understanding Workplace Stressors

In today's fast-paced and competitive world, the workplace can often be a source of stress for many individuals. Various factors contribute to this stress, known as workplace stressors. These stressors can negatively impact an employee's well-being, job satisfaction, and overall productivity. In this article, we will explore some common workplace stressors and their effects on employees.

1. No Work-Life Balance and Lack of Work-from-Home Options

One of the significant stressors in the workplace is the lack of work-life balance and the absence of work-from-home options (usually became common after COVID 19). Many employees find it challenging to maintain a healthy equilibrium between their personal and professional lives (much needed to be happy and healthy). The inability to have flexible working hours or the option to work remotely can lead to increased stress levels and a feeling of being overwhelmed.

TIP: Speak to your manager about the setting that works best for you. See if your organization is having a good work-from-home policy or is encouraging a good work-life balance.

2. Micromanagement

Micromanagement is another prevalent workplace stressor. When employees feel constantly monitored and controlled by their superiors, it can create a sense of frustration and hinder their ability to perform at their best. Micromanagement can lead to decreased job satisfaction, reduced motivation, and increased stress levels.

TIP: Are you working with the boss who breathes down your neck? The first sign of toxicity. Discuss with your manager on a one-on-one basis about your working style and how you want yourself to be managed. Talk about the vibes that you are getting from him/ her or if the same is negatively impacting your work/ health. If one-to-one doesn't work, escalate to the next person in hierarchy at the right time.

3. Role Conflict and Ambiguity

Role conflict and ambiguity refer to situations where employees are unsure about their responsibilities or face conflicting expectations from different sources. When employees are unclear about what is expected of them or face conflicting demands, it can lead to stress and confusion. This can impact their ability to prioritize tasks, make decisions, and perform effectively in their roles. Sometimes they are hired on fancy terms attached to their positions and hazy job descriptions but when they actually join the organization, the job responsibilities are completely different than what was shared as a part of JD.

TIP: As an employee read the JD carefully before applying for any job or accepting your offer letter. Get clarity on your role from your employer (the interviewer and the HR) during the interview. After joining if you feel that your roles are different than what was promised and it's not making any sense, immediately speak up and take necessary actions.)

4. Work Overload

Work overload is a common workplace stressor that occurs when employees are overwhelmed with excessive work demands (usually unusual) and deadlines. When individuals have an excessive workload, they may struggle to manage their time effectively, leading to increased stress levels and reduced productivity. They sometimes have to stay back at office after office hours or else take the work home. Work overload can also have a negative impact on an employee's physical and mental well-being.

TIP: As an employee take as much work on your plate as you can chew within the timelines without feeling stressed. Divide your day carefully using an organizational approach. Keep your priorities set. Speak up to your higher management at the right time if even after setting the priorities right the work is not getting finished on time and discuss mutual ways to get the same sorted.

5. Work Underload or Job Dissatisfaction

On the other end of the spectrum, work underload can also be a significant stressor. When employees have insufficient tasks or feel unchallenged in their roles, it can lead to boredom, lack of motivation, and a sense of underutilization of skills. This can negatively impact job satisfaction and overall well-being.

Feeling a lack of purpose or meaning in one's job can be a significant stressor. When employees do not find their work fulfilling or do not see the value in what they do, it can lead to decreased motivation, job dissatisfaction, and increased stress levels.

TIP: Just remember that work underload is as dangerous as work overload. You should feel valued for what you are doing, you should feel that your work is adding value to the organization rather than just a completion of the 9 to 5 job daily. Speak up to your higher management at the right time to let you handle the additional responsibilities even if your JD has insufficient work task allocation.

6. Lack of Freedom

Feeling restricted and lacking autonomy in decision-making can be a significant stressor in the workplace. When employees are not given the freedom to make decisions or have control over their work processes, it can lead to feelings of frustration and disempowerment. This lack of freedom can hinder creativity, innovation, and job satisfaction.

TIP: People love to work at places where there is an open work culture, where they have been given space, and where their ideas are heard. Just know at the right time if your organization is giving you that freedom. You are not been micromanaged and are working in your own space while understanding the importance of your role as well.

7. Relationships with Superiors and Colleagues

Positive relationships with superiors and colleagues are crucial for a healthy work environment. However, when there are conflicts, lack of support, or poor communication within these relationships, it can create stress and tension. Difficult relationships can impact an employee's motivation, job satisfaction, and overall well-being.

TIP: Just remember that you do not have to become a Ninja at work. Try avoiding conflicts with your colleagues. But also remember that you are not a people pleaser. Speak your mind whenever necessary and get the people to know that you are a person with feelings. Learn the tactics of conflict management and talk it out with the person you are having trouble with or to your higher management at the right point of time without getting into the cold war or World War.

8. Working Conditions

Poor working conditions, such as inadequate lighting, uncomfortable temperatures, or noisy environments, can contribute to workplace stress. These conditions can negatively affect an employee's physical and mental well-being, leading to increased stress levels and reduced productivity.

TIP: Make sure that you are seated in a comfortable space with proper lighting facility, no noise or pollution, not very high or low-temperature spaces, and with colleagues that are positively motivated. Just remember that you can change your seat anytime even if your name plate is attached to it, considering that you have valid reasons.)

9. Toxic Atmosphere

A toxic atmosphere in the workplace, characterized by bullying, harassment, or a negative company culture, can significantly impact employee well-being. Working in such an environment can lead to increased stress, anxiety, and even mental health issues. Organizations need to foster a positive and inclusive work culture to mitigate this stressor.

TIP: Just remember that no-one has the right to harass you or make you feel uncomfortable. Be it your boss/ manager/ or a work colleague. Watch out for the signs that are degrading for you. Speak up at the right time when people are bullying you or are making you feel uncomfortable. You are not entitled to work in a toxic atmosphere. Remember that you are not paid for that additional office politics. Try avoiding becoming a part of the gossip and foster a healthy atmosphere. Also, in the end, if you still feel that it's not working out for you, leave at the right time.

10. Insufficient Appraisals and Underpay

Employees often seek recognition and fair compensation for their efforts. When appraisals are infrequent or inadequate, or when employees feel they are underpaid for their work, it can lead to feelings of undervaluation and dissatisfaction. This stressor can impact an employee's motivation, loyalty, and overall job satisfaction.

TIP: Look for the market price, and how appraisals have happened that year across the market. If the market has been sufficiently paid or if your colleague (not so loyal or good at work) has been paid beyond what he/ she deserves but you feel that you are not been paid as much as you deserve, speak to your higher management. Keep the points ready for discussion as to why you feel that you are being underpaid and why you should get better. If you feel that you are being listened to and acted upon before putting down your papers, work things out. If not, you always have another option.

11. Frequent Changes

Constant changes in the workplace, such as organizational restructuring, frequent policy changes, or shifts in job responsibilities, can be a significant stressor. Employees may struggle to adapt to these changes, leading to feelings of uncertainty, insecurity, and increased stress levels.

TIP: Watch out for any such signs of too frequent changes and be aware about the stability of the organization but if it's not impacting your work, keep going and do not be part of unnecessary gossip.

12. Irrelevant Expectations

Unrealistic or irrelevant expectations placed on employees can create stress and pressure. When employees are expected to meet unattainable goals or perform tasks that are not aligned with their skills or job description, it can lead to feelings of inadequacy and stress.

TIP: As stated above, be aligned with your JD (until and unless additional work responsibilities have been given to make you more equipped and are teaching you better.) If not, speak up to your higher management about additional work and uncertain expectations. The expectations should be set right.

13. Lack of Sufficient Growth Opportunities

Employees often seek opportunities for growth and development in their careers. When organizations do not provide sufficient opportunities for advancement, learning, or skill development, it can lead to feelings of stagnation and frustration. This stressor can impact an employee's motivation and overall job satisfaction.

TIP: Just see that you have a complete view of the hierarchy. What is going to be your next position or role up the ladder? Whether you have been promoted at the right time. Whether your manager is giving you a future vision or not. Do not remain stuck at the same level for a long time until and unless you are learning at that level. Move to the next at the right time. If not, speak about it to the right person, understand their perspective, and keep upgrading your skills.

14. Unfriendly Work Policies

Unfriendly work policies, such as strict attendance policies, limited vacation time, or lack of flexibility, can contribute to workplace stress. When employees feel restricted by these policies, it can hinder work-life balance and create additional pressure.

TIP: Sometimes we have to face issues while maintaining a healthy work-life balance because of some unfriendly work policies. Just make sure that you go through all the policies at the right time especially the ones related to health insurance, personal or privileged leaves, POSH etc. You can always put across your ideas in improving the policies during HR meetups and other important meetings. See if that works.

15. Weak Leadership

Effective leadership is crucial for a positive work environment. When leaders lack the necessary skills, fail to provide support, or do not communicate effectively, it can create stress and uncertainty among employees. Weak leadership can impact morale, motivation, and overall job satisfaction.

TIP: Always see that you working with the right leader. The one that motivates you, keeps you aligned with your goals, and is clear with the vision. Do not fall for sugar-coated talks. Keep watching for signs that are leading to the path of inexistence. Your leader should be dignified and should be the one that you want to become like tomorrow.

16. Insufficient Trainings

Employees require proper training and development opportunities to perform their roles effectively. When organizations fail to provide sufficient training or support for skill development, it can create stress and hinder an employee's ability to meet job expectations.

TIP: Although self-learning is very important, make sure that your organization is doing enough for you to enhance your skills and is trying to make you part of the learning platforms or workshops.

17. Exploitation at Work

Exploitation in the workplace, such as being overworked, underpaid, or subjected to unfair treatment, can significantly impact employee well-being. This stressor can lead to feelings of resentment, frustration, and decreased job satisfaction.

TIP: You are not entitled to be exploited. Speak up if you feel that any point you are being tortured or exploited.

18. Powerlessness

Feeling powerless or lacking influence over decisions that affect one's work can be a significant stressor. When employees do not have a voice or are not involved in decision-making processes, it can lead to feelings of frustration, disengagement, and increased stress levels.

Workplace stressors can have a significant impact on employee well-being and job satisfaction. It is essential for organizations to identify and address these stressors to create a healthy and productive work environment. By promoting work-life balance, providing autonomy, encouraging positive relationships, and offering growth opportunities, organizations can mitigate the negative effects of workplace stressors and enhance employee well-being.

Watch for these stressors at your workplace and take action while you still have time.

Love and Light

LKIA 💚