(ThyBlackMan.com) Many employees are reporting that employers are more demanding of them in the last few years – more work, less pay, smaller raises if any raise at all. This leaves employees feeling frustrated and underappreciated at work. If that’s you, this week, there are a few strategies you can use to reduce your stress!
Here are six ways to reduce your stress when you’ve got more work and less pay:
1. Accept the “New Normal“
You can waste a lot of mental energy being resentful and angry about the change in the workload. At some point, you must accept that “it is what it is.” Your employer has changed the terms of employment, so to speak. You can either hang in there or look for a better situation elsewhere. If there are new 
rules and expectations in your workplace that are not going to change anytime soon and you want to stay on board, your best bet is to accept the new normal, then take steps to take care of yourself. Take control of what you can.
2. Make Adjustments. Let Go of Perfectionism.
Identify what aspect of the higher demands are causing you the most stress. Then ask, what would reduce my stress? Sometimes this is a matter of a simple conversation asking to adjust a deadline or expectation. Other times, it is a matter of delegation, especially for those who tend toward perfectionism. Recognize that in the old economy, maybe you could do it all yourself, but no more. Let go of some tasks. Ask for help.
3. Play Hard.
We’ve all heard the cliché, “If you work hard, play hard,” but there is actually research to back up that advice. University of North Carolina researcher Barb Frederickson asserts that positive emotion expands your ability to deal with adversity and stress. And it builds up over time like a cushion. So the more stress you’re under, the more fun is in order. So schedule fun if you have to. “Inducing” positive emotion is a stress-reducing strategy that works.
4. Work Hard and Set Boundaries.
Many people find this difficult, but you must do it. Have some time and some activities that are non-negotiable: Dinner time, working out, Sundays. I call them “non-negotiables“, and they are essential to maintaining some since of a personal life despite a demanding work schedule. One caveat: You will be much more effective setting boundaries with your employer if you are productive during your regular work hours. High performers have more flexibility and negotiating power.
5. Find an Additional Stream of Income
Let’s face it. Relying on your employer to increase your income right now is risky, and it’s beyond your control. This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t ask for a raise, but it means that you should also take charge and create another stream of income. Start a low-stress side business, one that allows you to tap into a passion of yours. Take on an extra project. Sell something. Find a way to bring in more income. Research shows that one of the few ways money affects happiness is whether we have enough to pay our bills.
6. Take Steps to Live Below Your Means.
Another thing you can control is the cost of your lifestyle. If you’re one of those people who shops as a stress reliever, find another hobby. If it truly looks like you are not going to increase your income any time soon, take charge by reducing your expenses – and your stress. Thinking about buying that new car or taking on a new expense? Think again. Be very strategic about your expenses during this time.
Written by Valorie Burton
Official website; http://www.ValorieBurton.com
