With this week (12th – 18th June) marking Men’s Health Week many will spend the week focusing on setting goals such as how to get fitter or eat healthier, but how many men will take a health check on their job?
According to recent figures from global management consultancy, Lee Hecht Harrison | Penna, 16 per cent of men feel stressed on a daily basis at work and more than half of men work at least half an hour of overtime before (52 per cent) and after (63 per cent) their scheduled contract. While a further one in five (19 per cent) admit to taking work home with them at least once a week and even over the weekend.
Nick Goldberg, CEO – UK & Ireland, Lee Hecht Harrison | Penna says, ‘This week is the perfect opportunity for men to take a step back and address their health across all aspects of their life, and we urge them to not overlook making a career health check. Our research has shown men are not allowing themselves to take a step back and switch off from work, which can cause issues down the line.
‘With our working life and private life becoming increasingly integrated, negativity and unhappiness at work can easily spill over and become all consuming. While it is encouraging to see a third of men have only positive things to say about work, our research also shows that more needs to be done by both the employee and employer to improve workplace happiness which will have a direct impact onto their overall health.’
Nick Goldberg, has devised some top tips to help you cope
Create a cut off
And force others to hold you to it. Enlist a colleague or a friend to call when it’s time for you to leave the office, or take your phone away when you are too tempted to check on work communication.
Talk it through
Stress is never conducive to good work, which your managers and senior team will know all too well having been in your shoes once before. If you’re experiencing stress on a regular basis talk to your line manager to reach a solution and tackle the root of your problem. That may, for instance, involve more training for you, or for them.
Put things into perspective
Simple measures like ‘to-do lists’ and time allocation allow you to plan out your day to the best of your availability. Every time an unforeseen task or event comes up, get back to the writing board that is your to do list. Focusing your attention on something small will allow you to control anxiety, which is by definition overwhelming.
Take a breather
Take a two minute break every time you start to feel stress taking over. Look away from your computer screen and practice breathing. Place a post-it on your screen to remind you to do this. If you have more time on your hands, stand up and walk around (the block, or your office). Whether it’s going to the kitchen for a cup of tea or stepping outside to get some fresh air, taking a brief break can help you gain control and reconnect with your body and surroundings.
Fill your life
The temptation to let work take-over is immense, we all become subject to chasing that next project, client or promotion. By making your social life as big a priority as your work projects, you will ensure your wellbeing. Make immovable dates with friends or loved ones to give you something to look forward to.
Further reading on men’s health
