How to Handle Frustration at Work

Frustration is a normal phenomenon in a closed social environment like work. It is unavoidable. Ongoing triggers like office politics, long hours, an unrelenting boss, bureaucratic system, inefficient coworkers and strict deadlines make workplace a hotbed for stress. Whether it affects your efficiency in the long run or not depends on how well you handle it.

Instructions

1. Identify the cause for frustration. Often fixing the source helps to keep stress at bay rather than opting for temporary retreats. If your shortcomings are the primary cause, acknowledge them graciously.

2. Communicate with your boss or a friendly coworker about what is bothering you. Talking openly about your frustrations could help you gain a different perspective.

3. Focus on the part of the job that you love the most instead of lingering on the problem areas that are beyond your control. Remember that frustration affects your health as much as smoking or a sedentary lifestyle.

4. Let the steam out with a brisk walk or a good massage. Exercise regularly to improve metabolism and release useful stress relieving chemicals in your body. Remember to drink water frequently while at work, as dehydration adds to physical and mental stress.

5. Meditate by taking a quiet moment to draw a pleasant picture of where you would like to be in your mind. Get down to the last detail like a green meadow with snow-capped mountains in the distance, cool breeze gently swaying the grass and the gray rain clouds caressing the emerald mountains. Live in that picture and take some long deep breaths to relax your mind and body.

6. Consider whether the job that you are in is the right fit for you. When you are dissatisfied with the work itself, a positive outlook alone will not fix your frustration. Touch up your resume and look for the ideal job.

Tips & Warnings

• Stress affects your judgment, concentration and overall efficiency.