Now that you’ve worked hard and are finally earning your masters in project and program management degree through Brandeis University, you’re able to get out into the workforce and start working in your chosen field. With that said it probably won’t take you long to learn that the field is one that can be very stressful and taxing on you, both emotionally and physically.
And it’s not just a career in project management that can cause stress; there are all kinds of jobs that are high-stress and fast-paced. So how do you go about leaving that stress in the workplace and making sure your time at home is relaxing? Here are some tips you can use.
Rid Your Mind of Work Thoughts
This tip is definitely easier said than done, but it’s important to get into the habit of leaving thoughts about work at your desk. When you pack up at the end of the day, it’s time to shut your mind off where work is concerned. Work thoughts will inevitably try to creep into your mind once you are home, so push them out and replace them with another thought.
This will take effort and reminding on your part for the first little bit, but over time it will become second nature.
Live in the Moment
Here’s another tip that can be easier said than done, but it is useful in so many different aspects of life. Living in the moment is a great way to get your mind off other things. You can start living in the moment by being aware of your surroundings during your commute home, during conversations with loved ones once you are home, and during activities you take part in. Focus on what you’re doing at that exact time and don’t worry about what happens next.
Don’t Bring Work Home with You
This one is pretty obvious, but whenever possible you want to avoid bringing work home with you. If you bring it home, the stress will follow so why do that to yourself? Your home life and work life should ideally be kept separate from each other, allowing your home to be a sanctuary from the craziness in the office.
Make Sure Your Number is Just for Emergencies
Because emergencies can happen from time to time, it’s always important to give co-workers your contact information. With that said, it’s important to stress to them that you should only be contacted if it is a true emergency.
Don’t Sync Your Calendars
Many people end up syncing their personal calendars with their work calendars. While this may seem like a good idea, it doesn’t allow for that separation. It means you will still be getting work alerts and reminders while you’re at home, and supposed to be enjoying your downtime.
Leave Work Behind
Thanks to your project and program management degree, you have a very rewarding career ahead of you. However, even in the best of situations work stress can still occur and in those times it’s important to know how to leave that stress in the workplace where it belongs.