Working productively: Getting through a work crunch
We all go through periods when work is more hectic than usual. These times may be challenging, but there are strategies you can use to help you get through a work crunch and reduce stress. Managing the crunch
Keeping your perspective is a critical part of getting through a busier time at work. It's helpful to remind yourself that the work crunch you're in isn't going to last forever and you can take actions to make it a more positive experience for you and your team. Keep the following in mind:
- Remember how you got through peak periods before. We've all had times when we've been "flat out." Take time to remember what worked for you last time -- and find ways to incorporate those strategies into your plans.
- Remind yourself that "this too shall pass." Keep a countdown calendar to mark the number of days until the end of your work crunch.
- Help keep your team spirit up. Teams that take their work seriously while also finding ways to have fun together keep their morale up and are often the most productive in challenging times. During a crunch, the more your team can support and appreciate each other's efforts, the more positive the work environment will be.
- Work closely with your manager. During a work crunch, it is crucial that you clearly understand work expectations and priorities so you can eliminate misunderstandings that could lead to rework. You may also be able to help your manager identify work in the department that could be eliminated or postponed until the team is less busy.
- Concentrate on the project at hand. Studies have found that the ability to focus on the work at hand, without thinking continually about what needs to be done next, helps most of us be more productive.
When you feel stretched to your limit, it's more important than ever to take care of yourself.
- Remember to take short breaks. Stretch. Get a few minutes of fresh air.
- Take lunch and dinner breaks. It can be tempting to want to work "straight through" when work responsibilities increase, but research shows that error rates rapidly increase when people don't get time to clear their heads or when they don't get enough to eat, causing work to become more time-consuming than it has to be.
- Seek support. If you find yourself dealing with difficult customers or tension at work, seek support from coworkers and human resources. Talking is sometimes the best way to get through difficult times.
- Know the warning signs of stress. The signs include headaches, back pain, sleep problems, heart palpitations, anxiety, a short-temper, irritableness and lack of concentration. It's important to talk with your doctor if you are experiencing any of these physical symptoms associated with stress.
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