When do you feel most productive?
Nice topic.
Productivity is of utmost importance for the sustainability of business activities in a company or organization. Therefore, every company or organization will always strive to achieve and maintain high productivity. There are many factors related to and influencing productivity in a company, including human resources, funds, machinery, raw materials, management, and methods.
The factor of human resources is central in a company or organization. Regardless of its form and purpose, organizations are built based on various visions for the benefit of humans and are managed and run by humans in their implementation of missions. Thus, the factor of human resources becomes crucial to consider in efforts to improve productivity. Moreover, productivity enhancement is not solely due to humans as the central factor but also because of the knowledge and awareness that humans or labor for an organization can be seen from two conflicting perspectives: humans as economic resources and humans as social beings. Humans are dynamic creatures, full of aspirations, feelings, and thoughts, who not only need material needs but also recognition and appreciation. Surely, managers realize that long-term productivity depends greatly on the dedication and commitment of the company’s employees.
Many factors can influence employee performance. Whether employees work productively or not depends on motivation, job satisfaction, stress levels, physical conditions of work, compensation systems, job design, and other economic, technical, and behavioral aspects. Understanding the factors that influence productivity is crucial because the HR function can then select productivity enhancement factors that are suitable for specific situations.
Stress is a primary condition for employees that is increasingly important and determines productivity levels. Stress is a result or another consequence of the working process related to humans’ goals to realize and actualize their potential in work. When job satisfaction occurs, it generally reflects in employees’ feelings towards their work, often manifested in positive attitudes towards their work and everything they face or are assigned within their work environment. Conversely, if employees do not find satisfaction in their work, they will not achieve psychological maturity.
Job satisfaction is crucial for companies as it can create a positive atmosphere in the company’s work environment. However, it will be difficult to achieve if hindered by various routines and obstacles in the work environment, which ultimately can lead to stress.
Stress is a part of human life. Stress is a common organism response to any biological demands that arise. Generally, stress is considered a negative condition, leading to physical or mental illness, or abnormal behavior. However, stress does not necessarily have to be bad because it also has positive value. Stress is needed to achieve high performance. The higher the drive for achievement, the higher the level of stress, and consequently, the higher the productivity and efficiency.
The main challenge faced by HR managers is how to effectively manage human resources. If a company neglects the issues of employee satisfaction and stress, it will incur losses in terms of time, money, and efficiency in improving company productivity.
Symptoms of stress associated with behavior include changes in productivity, absenteeism, and employee turnover rates. Stress has a negative impact on long-term performance because the intensity or level of sustained stress can break down individuals, weaken their energy resources, and drain their health, making employees feel weak and unable to function.
Humans are creatures with a high sensitivity to various issues, often experiencing emotional problems at various times. Some difficulties occur outside of work, but other difficulties are related to work. In many cases, this can affect job performance and should therefore be a concern for management.
Cooper and Straw identified several symptoms of stress, including:
- Behavioral Symptoms
Changes in productivity, increased absenteeism, and higher turnover rates among employees. - Physical Symptoms
Headaches, muscle tension, fatigue, and gastrointestinal problems. - Psychological Symptoms
Anxiety, depression, irritability, mood swings, and difficulty concentrating. - Emotional Symptoms
Feelings of overwhelm, frustration, helplessness, and a sense of being unable to cope. - Cognitive Symptoms
Decreased memory and decision-making abilities, racing thoughts, and constant worrying. - Interpersonal Symptoms
Increased conflict, withdrawal from social interactions, and difficulties in relationships with colleagues or supervisors.
Stressors are external or internal factors that trigger the body’s stress response. They can be anything that causes physical, emotional, or psychological tension. Common stressors include work pressure, relationship issues, financial problems, major life changes, and environmental factors such as noise or overcrowding. Stressors can vary greatly from person to person, and what may be stressful for one individual may not be stressful for another.
Some common causes of stress in the workplace include:
- Workload
Heavy workloads, tight deadlines, and unrealistic expectations can lead to stress. - Job Insecurity
Fear of job loss or layoffs can cause significant stress among employees. - Lack of Control
Feeling powerless or not having autonomy over one’s work can be stressful. - Poor Work-Life Balance
Long hours, overtime, and lack of time for personal activities can contribute to stress. - Unclear Expectations
Ambiguity about job roles, responsibilities, or goals can create stress. - Conflict
Interpersonal conflicts with colleagues, supervisors, or clients can be stressful. - Bullying or Harassment
Workplace bullying, harassment, or discrimination can cause significant emotional distress. - Organizational Changes
Restructuring, mergers, or downsizing can lead to uncertainty and stress among employees. - Lack of Support
Feeling unsupported by management or colleagues can increase stress levels. - Poor Communication
Ineffective communication channels or lack of feedback can lead to misunderstandings and stress.
To reduce stress in the workplace, consider implementing the following strategies:
- Time Management
Prioritize tasks, set realistic goals, and break larger projects into smaller, manageable tasks to avoid feeling overwhelmed. - Healthy Boundaries
Establish boundaries between work and personal life to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Set specific times for work and relaxation, and avoid bringing work-related concerns home. - Communication
Foster open and clear communication with colleagues and supervisors to address concerns, clarify expectations, and resolve conflicts effectively. - Support Network
Build a supportive network of colleagues, friends, or mentors whom you can turn to for advice, encouragement, and emotional support. - Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques
Practice mindfulness, meditation, deep breathing exercises, or progressive muscle relaxation to reduce stress and promote relaxation during breaks or after work. - Physical Activity
Incorporate regular exercise into your routine to reduce stress, improve mood, and increase energy levels. Even short walks or stretching breaks during the workday can be beneficial. - Healthy Lifestyle Choices
Prioritize a healthy diet, adequate sleep, and hydration to support overall well-being and resilience to stress. - Time-Outs
Take short breaks throughout the day to rest, recharge, and engage in activities you enjoy, such as listening to music, reading, or chatting with coworkers. - Assertiveness
Practice assertive communication to express your needs, set boundaries, and advocate for yourself in a respectful and constructive manner. - Seeking Help
Don’t hesitate to seek professional help from a counselor, therapist, or human resources representative if you’re struggling to cope with stress in the workplace. They can provide valuable support, guidance, and resources to help you manage stress effectively. Finding the right counselor may take time and effort, but investing in your mental health and well-being is worth it. Don’t hesitate to explore multiple options and ask questions to ensure you find the best counselor for your needs.
Changing job can be an option if workplace stress significantly impacting your well-being and quality of life. The decision to change jobs should be carefully considered and based on your individual circumstances, needs, and priorities. It’s essential to weigh the potential benefits and risks of making a job change and to have a plan in place before taking any action. Consider seeking support from trusted friends, family members, mentors, or career counselors to help you evaluate your options and make an informed decision.
Now I’ll answer this prompt. I feel most productive when I wake up around 4am in the morning, well-rested and focused on a purpose, with the realistic goals set to be accomplished, aiming to achieve job satisfaction.
Featured image: Koi
Source:
Analysis of Factors Influencing Job-Related Stress Among Employees at PT Grapari Telkomsel Pontianak (Thesis by L. Rihardini)
mysterious file 88 