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There are many ways to manage the daily pressures of your working life - and your business, clients and employees will thank you for it
Workplace stress in Australia comes at a huge price to business owners.
According to research by Medibank, workplace-related stress costs the Australian economy over $14 billion a year.
For brokers who employ staff, this translates to over one per cent in lost productivity, both as a result of absentee workers and workers who are physically at work but unable to properly focus.
In an industry where tight deadlines and anxious clients are common, brokers who have learned to effectively manage their own stress levels - and help their staff do the same - are likely to enjoy a more productive working environment, with obvious bottom line benefits.
Here are a few stress management techniques to suit any budget:
EXPENSIVE OPTIONS:
- Catch some zzz's - Looking like futuristic first-class airplane seats, snooze pods are globally popular. They are designed to provide workers with 20 minutes of down time. Sleep pods are already being used in China and the US, and it seems Australia is not too far behind. Organisations such as Queensland Health, the Australian Institute of Sport and and the University of Sydney's Brain and Mind Research Institute are currently trialling the effectiveness of sleep pods in the workplace to minimise stress.
Cost: The Metronaps ‘Powered Zero' lounge starts from $3,650, while noise cancelling headphones start at around $169. - Mobile massage - Brokers that are looking to give themselves and their staff a lift without too much workplace disruption should consider engaging the services of a mobile massage company like ‘3 Minute Angels'. A five minute massage can help revitalise staff and at the same time help to boost workplace motivation and morale. Best of all, companies like 3 Minute Angels can come to your office, any time and any day of the week!
Cost: From $80 an hour for ten five-minute massages. - Get Wii-fit - Exercise is an important way to combat stress. The Wii-fit is not only fun but also promotes exercise - and can create a healthy sense of competition in the workplace. Wii-fit games can be tailored to suit one or more players, making the Wii suitable for any business size. Government departments such as Centrelink, for example, have recognised the health and social benefits of Wii Fit, making it available for staff use.
Cost: Around $300 for the console with games at an extra cost, upwards from $50.
BUDGET OPTIONS:
- Chill out - If space allows for it, installing a television or music player, or providing staff with access to board/card games, can provide a leisurely distraction for staff during their lunch breaks.
Cost: Varies depending on the costs of equipment or games. - End of month drinks - Getting staff together for a casual drink, either in the office or at the local watering hole, is a great way to encourage peer interaction and boost staff morale.
Cost: From about $5 a beer or BYO. - Give congratulations - Take the time to appreciate your small successes, as these are the milestones that will keep you motivated and happy. It will also push you to keep giving clients your best.
Cost: Free. - Laugh- Laughter is a fabulous cure for stress as it promotes a positive outlook and better living. And best of all, it doesn't cost a cent. Take time out of your day to appreciate the lighter side of life. Talk with your peers and clients and enjoy a chuckle now and then... It's good for you.
Cost: Free.
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