How to Handle Workplace Stress: A Practical Guide

2/12/20255 min read

Workplace stress can feel overwhelming, and if you’re struggling, you’re not alone. Whether it’s tight deadlines, demanding clients, or just an unrelenting workload, stress has a way of creeping into every part of life.

I’ve felt it too—sometimes from pushing myself too hard with strict discipline, and other times from sheer exhaustion, feeling incapable of doing anything else beyond the bare minimum. It’s frustrating when you want to stay on top of everything but find yourself running on empty.

But there are ways to manage it. You deserve to have balance, to feel at ease, and to create a work life that doesn’t drain you. Let’s explore how to make that happen.

C O N T E N T S

Work stress can feel like a heavy blanket that settles over you, and it’s not always easy to shake off. For me, it’s often a mix of things—trying to meet tight deadlines while juggling a million other tasks, or feeling like I’m not doing enough even when I’m giving it my all. Sometimes, it’s the little things, like miscommunication with a client or not having enough time to recharge, that add up and make everything feel overwhelming.

A lot of it comes down to how much we care. We want to do well, to be seen as reliable and capable, but that pressure can sometimes backfire. It’s like carrying an invisible weight, and it’s hard to admit when it’s too much. And honestly? That’s okay. It’s human to feel this way. What matters is recognizing it and giving ourselves the grace to step back, breathe, and figure out what we need to feel better.

Why Stress Happens at Work

Studies have shown that chronic stress can lead to long-term health problems like anxiety, depression, and even cardiovascular issues. A report from the American Psychological Association highlights how unmanaged stress can weaken your immune system and contribute to burnout. It’s more than just a bad day at work—it affects your entire well-being.

If any of this sounds familiar, it might be time to take a step back and rethink how to approach stress management. The good news? There are ways to regain control, and you don’t have to do it alone.

The Impact of Stress on Your Life

Prioritize Physical Health with Movement
I know how hard it can be to find the energy to move when you’re already drained, but for me, daily exercise is non-negotiable. It’s not about hitting the gym every day—it’s about moving my body in a way that keeps me grounded, whether that’s at home, outside, or wherever feels right. A quick workout, a stretch, or even a dance session in my living room reminds me that there’s life beyond work. The sweat, the effort—it’s always worth it. It’s like hitting a reset button for my mind and body, and it’s become a non-negotiable part of my routine. Find something that feels good for you, and let it become a steady part of your day, too.
Set Clear Boundaries with Hard Shut-Downs

This one’s tough, but so important. I’ve had to learn the hard way that work will always find a way to creep into my evenings if I let it. Now, I try to decide when my workday ends, and I really stick to it. I turn off notifications, close the laptop, and give myself permission to step away. Work will always be there tomorrow, but my well-being needs attention now. You deserve that space to breathe, too.
Keep Perspective: You’re Not Saving Lives

It’s easy to get swept up in the urgency of work, but most of the time, it’s not life-or-death. I have to remind myself of this all the time. I’m doing my best, and that’s enough. You don’t have to carry the weight of the world on your shoulders—neither do I.
Avoid Toxic Work Environments
Not all stress is normal. I’ve been in situations where I felt undervalued and overwhelmed, and it took me a while to realize that it wasn’t just me—it was the environment. If your workplace constantly leaves you feeling this way, it’s okay to think about other options. Your mental health is precious, and no job is worth sacrificing it. You deserve to be in a space where you feel respected and supported.
Take Care of Your Sleep and Mental Clarity

Stress and sleep are so connected. When my mind races at night, I don’t really journal much—instead, I go to X (or whatever platform I’m on) and just yap and rant. My best friend is there too, and it makes me feel less alone. Sometimes, she sees my rants and actually checks in with me, asking how I’m doing or what I’m going through. It’s comforting to know someone’s listening.
As for bedtime, I’ve made it a point to create a routine that works for me. Skincare is non-negotiable—it’s my little way of taking care of myself. I also try to put my phone away (though I’ll admit, it’s not always easy!) and do my best to sleep early. It’s not perfect, but I’ve noticed how much better I feel when I prioritize these small habits. A good night’s sleep really does make all the difference.
Try Time-Boxing for Balance

If work feels like it’s taking over your life, time-boxing can help. I’ve started setting specific time slots for tasks, and when the time’s up, I move on. It’s a way to keep things in check and stop one task from eating up my whole day. Balance doesn’t have to be perfect—it just has to work for you.
Separate Work from Who You Are

Your job is what you do, not who you are. I’ve had to remind myself of this so many times. It’s important to find joy and fulfillment outside of work, whether it’s through hobbies, relationships, or personal goals. The more I nurture the other parts of my life, the easier it becomes to handle work stress.
Consider a Career Shift if Needed

If your job is a constant source of stress, it’s okay to think about a change. I’ve been there, and it’s not an easy decision, but it’s worth considering. This doesn’t mean rushing into anything, but it does mean being open to possibilities where you can thrive. I’ve learned that staying in a role that drains me isn’t sustainable, and sometimes, a change is what’s needed to find peace.