More than half of medical office managers experience stress during the day.
So, if you’re a bit overwhelmed at work these days, especially if you’re running a busy healthcare practice, you’re not alone. We will explore four strategies for coping with these overwhelming feelings while making the day less stressful.
Create a plan and stick to it.
While it may sound like a waste of your precious and already lacking time, studies show it’s practical to spend a few minutes planning your day. Make a list of what needs to be done for the day. As you start planning, include the following:
- Which items need to be a priority.
- How much time will you need to complete each task.
- How you will tackle these duties.
- When you’ll take your breaks.
Be as realistic with the timelines as possible without overthinking them and stick to them. Don’t take on extra responsibilities in the schedule unless it’s an absolute must. When you have a plan in place, focus on that, and everything should come together. You’ll find that this will work much better than moving around from each task, unsure of what comes next, what you’re supposed to be focusing on, and if you’ll have time to get everything done.
Complete the simple tasks first.
Maybe you’re working on one big project that has you stalling out. You aren’t feeling creative or have a big task, and it’s overwhelming you. If so, look for smaller to-do items that you can complete in less than an hour. That will make you feel accomplished and more in control. Once you’re done with the simple task, move on.
Maybe you started working on something, but a more pressing task landed on your desk, and this new task is more demanding than you originally thought. You’ll get your confidence back by going back to that first job and getting it done. When you do this, you’ll find that your mood will improve, you’ll feel energized and ready to take on the day.
[Need more ideas for staying organized at your medical practice? Click here!]
Find a partner.
If you’re unable to be productive because you have too much to do, find yourself constantly daydreaming, or you can’t beat your social media addiction, it’s time for an accountability partner. This can be a co-worker, a friend outside of the office, or your significant other.
Find someone you feel comfortable around and share your challenges, goals, and progress with them. They can help you navigate these challenges and help you work towards achieving your career goals.
Make time for some activity.
It probably seems like you don’t have a minute to spare, but physical activity can help fight those overwhelming feelings throughout your day. Regular exercise keeps us mentally fit, from strengthening muscles to boosting the immune system. It also boosts mood and reduces stress!
While it may be difficult for office managers to make time for regular exercise, it is good to implement some activity in your workday. Some tips include:
- If your office is in a tall building, take the stairs.
- You can do exercises at your desk to stay fit, specially designed to be done in an office setting.
- Go walking at lunch and bring your accountability partner!
- Ride a bicycle to work.
- Park further away from the entrance, so you get more steps in.
We know busy days and workplace distractions can ruin the best of intentions, so set a reminder on your phone or desktop so you have no excuses for not moving.
While working in the medical field can be rewarding, it can cause overwhelming feelings. If you are showing signs of anxiety, it’s time to implement some changes.
Start by following these tips. After all, you cannot help others if you do not take care of yourself first!
Tags: healthy living, healthy living for office managers, healthy practice manager, national organization of rheumatology managers, NORM, office management, office managers, overwhelming feelings, Stress Reducers, tips for office managers Posted by
