Workplace stress relief using humor

Stress relief with humor is an effective remedy technique for a very serious workplace problem.

Recent statistics show that

- 58% of people say the number one source of stress is their job

- 46% say their jobs are very stressful

- 46% said their lives are unbalanced

A new medical study found that workplace stress was deemed to be more dangerous than a lack of exercise.

Two of the most effective and least costly techniques to manage stress are humor and laughter. When we can see the absurdity in what causes us stress, we can effectively manage it with humor and laughter.

Humor and laughter help us deal with the negative side effects of stress. The effects of a good laugh can last up to 24 hours.

It is a matter of taking our jobs seriously, but taking ourselves lightly.

Here are some strategies you can adopt

At home, at work, or as a customer - don't tick off the person who has the power , or who can give you what you want or need from them.

At work, if having a bad day, keep it to yourself. It's entirely possible that others may have even a worse day than you.

Avoid negative people. Avoid negative situations and negative self-talk. Surround yourself with 'fun'loving and 'positive' people.

Give yourself permission to have fun and to laugh. It's a good feeling to release the 'child', or the 'clown' within you.

If you have a bee up your...... about something. Go to the person who can correct or resolve the issue. Don't waste time whining to people who could care less.

When things are stressful, try to look for the humor in the situation. If you can think, or say to yourself, "Someday I'm going to laugh about this -don't wait! Laugh about it now

If you are stressed, stuffing yourself with all that is edible will only result in even greater stress when you step on the scale.

Address your anger. Don't build a mental hairball on an issue that bothers you - Cough it up!clamming up, silent treatmnet, being sarcastic, heavy sighs, dirty looks, rolling of the eyes all are ineffective. You have to address what is bugging you, because more than likely nobody will either notice nor care about your silent indications of being peeved off.

Adddress your stressors! If your body and muscles ache from tension and anxiety do some rolling of the shoulders, do some stretch and deep breathing exercises. Relax with a humor video, audio, or comedy tv program.

For those who are truly unhappy in your jobs, look for a job that is more suitable. If that is not possible, develop a hobby, play a sport, or get into an exercise program that will take your mind off your job.

Plan for 'relaxation' in your daytimer. If you don't plan for it, it more than likely won't happen.

Schedule your own humor and relaxation breaks into your daily routine. For example taking a deep breath almost feels like a mini vacation.

It has been proven that you can't laugh and be stressed at the same time,so learn to take yourself lightly.