Be friendly: Avoiding Burnout Part 13

bythemethod | July 17, 2008

Table of contents for Avoiding burnout

When you get into the office are people glad to see you or do they hide? I had a boss who used to fill us all with dread. If he had a day off going to work was like going to a party (well almost). We were all much more relaxed and happy and usually ended up getting more done than when they were there.

People are less stressed when they share life with others

The plain truth is that other people help us manage our stress. There is an old saying that: a problem shared is a problem halved. There is a lot of truth in this but sometimes we don’t even have to share the problem we can just spend time with other people.

The other day I had to go to London for a business meeting. I quite like London but the travel is always unpleasant. This time I had to travel on the Underground system during rush hour. People were crammed into the coaches tightly. This in itself is likely to raise your stress. I’m getting off my point.

My meeting was with a friend and its good to spend time with friends. We talked about our common interests and joked around a little. It makes you feel better.

Try to be more friendly

I’m not going to suggest you make best friends with everyone but being with other people can really help you manage your stress.

Why not make it your habit from now on to say hello and smile at people you work with when you meet them. It’s a simple thing to do but will make you more likeable and approachable. If you are the boss you should still greet everyone you can no matter what their status in the company.

If you are already a likeable person then try to show concern for the lives of those you work with. Ask people how they are doing today.

When you are liked you will attract far less stress towards yourself.