Managing Stress: How to support well-being at work as a manager
Stress is almost guaranteed in the professional realm, particularly if you’re tasked with leadership responsibilities. However, there’s a line between regular job pressure and the kind of stress that erodes your well-being at work. With burnout becoming increasingly prevalent among managers, this isn’t merely about navigating a to-do list—there’s more at stake.
Why Managers Are Role Models for Well-Being at Work
As a manager, you’re not just responsible for projects and deadlines; you also set the tone for your team’s work culture. You are a role model, and the steps you take towards your well-being can create a positive ripple effect throughout the organisation.
1. Leverage Flexibility to Elevate Your Well-Being at Work
Endless working hours and constant availability may seem like prerequisites for managerial roles, but self-care shouldn’t take a backseat. Utilise flexible working hours, schedule regular breaks and establish a work-life balance that rejuvenates rather than exhausts you. Pre-plan your workweek, and be explicit about your daily start and end times. This means scheduling them into your calendar to hold yourself accountable. Your proactive approach to balance will serve as a template for your team, enhancing collective well-being at work.
2. Integrate Microbreaks into Your Daily Routine
Short, frequent breaks are more than mere timeouts; they’re opportunities for mental recalibration. A brief five-minute pause can clear your mind and make it easier to move between different tasks. When you incorporate these breaks, you show your team that pacing oneself is integral to maintaining well-being at work.
3. Gain Mastery Over Your Evolving Workload
As someone in a managerial role, your to-do list rarely stays static. Continuous updates, inter-departmental interactions, and team support inevitably fill your plate. A periodic workload review can alleviate stress and ensure you spend your time on the most valuable work.
Related reading: Workload Management Tactics to Help Transform Your Workday
4. Practice Smart Delegation for a Balanced Work Life
Delegation isn’t just about lightening your load but empowering your team members to grow. Delegate mindfully, keeping in mind your time, the skills of your team, and their interest in various tasks. When you delegate effectively, you develop your team and reduce the risk of burnout.
5. Simplify to Thrive: Keep Organisational Systems Uncomplicated
Complex systems often result in unnecessary stress. By adopting simple, transparent methods of organisation, you set an example for your team to follow, fostering an environment that enhances well-being at work for everyone. An example is the My Desk template, which provides a single-page view of your workweek.
The managerial role comes with inherent stress, but it’s also an incredible opportunity for both personal and professional growth. When you prioritise your well-being, you’re not just looking out for yourself but setting a precedent for your entire team. Taking proactive steps to manage stress and enhance well-being will pave the way for long-term, sustainable success across the board—without the looming threat of burnout.
