Time pressure can occur in many ways: you might have the constant feeling that there aren’t enough hours in the day, or you might be working on a serious task with a pressing deadline. Whatever you’re going through, research has proven that time pressure can be a friend or a foe, depending on your situation.
The constant ticking of the clock might leave you feeling stuck and stressed out, which is bad for you and your work. But that isn’t always the case; in certain circumstances, the pressure of one or more tasks can help you boost your motivation and improve your creativity.
So, how can you make sure that time pressure works for you rather than against you and your work? If you’re having trouble dealing with work stress due to time pressure, I have some stress management tactics to try.
Take pressure as an opportunity
If you see pressure as an opportunity to improve and do better, this will show better results in your professional and work life. Boost your confidence and trust in your abilities. Do what you can, and if there’s something you cannot do, honestly admit that you can not do this task or do not know how to do so.
But if there’s a task you know you can cope with, relax, trust your abilities and start with small steps to take control.
Whatever occurs, maintain your composure
This will take some time to master, but the more you practice, the better you will become. Maintaining your composure displays that you can take things in hand and fulfill your tasks even while suffering.
Keep reminding yourself that “So it’s stressful since the situation demands a great deal of effort, but it’s also controllable.” This will help you see your pressure as a motivating challenge rather than a source of stress.
Address your issues
Consider how you might be able to use the truth to your advantage. Even if you struggle under stress, admit it calmly you are actively working to improve in this area. Get the help you require right away. Assessing the situation and solving concerns quickly indicates your ability to think logically under pressure.
Showing that you’re aware of your flaws and willing to work on them might help you make a good impression.
Organize your tasks
Even if you’re usually unorganized, planning to keep organized can greatly decrease your work-related stress. Being organized with your time means hurrying less in the morning to prevent being late and hustling less at the end of the day to get out.
Keeping yourself under a deadline might help you avoid the negative impacts of clutter and be more productive at work.
Avoid multitasking
Multitasking is usually assumed to be a great method to make the most of one’s time and get more done in a day. But now, people realize that if they talked on the phone and did other tasks simultaneously, their speed and accuracy (not to mention their sanity) would decrease.
Splitting your focus causes a “frustrated” feeling in most individuals, and it doesn’t function well for them. Instead of multitasking, try distributing your tasks as a cognitive method for staying on top of your work.
Take breaks
Under pressure, most people tend to get rid of it by working harder on their tasks to get rid of it. Try taking regular breaks throughout the day if your schedule permits it. Take a walk, meditate, eat something, take a mini walk, or you can stay still at your place. This is a great way to let off stress, improve your health, and get in better shape.
Many people suffer from the negative impacts of a sedentary lifestyle. Getting some exercise or a bit of rest over your lunch break can help you overcome work stress’s physical and mental symptoms.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle
Adopt a “Success Schedule” to help you prepare to deal with any unexpected situation that may occur.
Getting enough restful sleep is also essential for staying healthy in our fast-paced lives. Getting enough sleep can benefit you with improved memory, increased stamina, increased focus, sharper attention, and reduced irritability. It will also help you wake up fresh and playfully do your daily chores.
Stay away from unnecessary arguments
We’re all sucked into the drama from time to time. However, if you’re getting too worked up, take a break and consider what you believe the conclusion should be. Stop, take a deep breath, and take a step back before continuing with a clear head.
Stay away from the drama or any unnecessary arguments and focus on the positive sides of your life. Refrain from engaging in debates or other disagreements with your co-workers. Maintain a busy schedule to keep your thoughts positive and focused.
Final Thoughts
While time restrictions might be frustrating and unpleasant, it’s also important considering the alternative: having too little to do or not feeling challenged by your work can be equally unpleasant.
Remember these tips that you may apply to flip the situation to your advantage the next time you’re up against the clock. Ask why time is so important, and remind yourself why the project is important to you. Above all, try to consider the added pressure as an enjoyable challenge rather than a threat.
