Stress, whether at the office or at home, is just a part of life: we may not like it, but occasionally we all have to deal with some kind of stress. A stress-free workplace may not exist, but the good news is that some stress is healthy. Stress gives us that extra push we need to accomplish a goal, and it can motivate us to do something about the negative things (which are often stressors) in our lives. Stress is also proof that we care about our jobs and are pushing ourselves to work hard and reach high goals. Stress can ultimately lead us to success.

The bad news is that if ignored, stress can easily reach a point where it causes the opposite effect and leads us to mental, physical, and emotional damage. Stress can drag us down, impede on our performance at work, and cause problems at home. Thankfully, there are myriad ways to deal with stress. Although sometimes unavoidable, there are certain stressors that can be remedied and even prevented. Some stressful situations work themselves out. Stress can subside with the meeting of a deadline, the completion of a project, or the end of your industry's busy season. Sometimes all you need to relieve minor stress is a relaxing weekend away from the office. But stress does not always go away on its own; therefore, taking charge of the stressors in your life is necessary.

One common workplace stressor is time management, or lack thereof. We've all had our "so much to do, so little time to do it" moments: projects pile up, you take on more responsibilities, you have to catch up after a sick day, and so on. Although stressful situations like this are always going to occur, a little organization can help you work more efficiently and ease some of the stress. Try organizing your to-do list by project size, deadline, workload, stress factor, or type. Then assign each project with a date by which you would like to see it completed. This delegation will keep you focused, and the satisfaction of completion is motivating and rewarding. If this does not help, talk to your supervisor about your workload. Informing him or her that you are struggling does not mean you're unqualified or failing. Your supervisor doesn't know your limits - only you do.

If time management and workload organization aren't your major stressors, try exercise. The repetitive nature of workplace life can be taxing on both physical health and mental health. Breaking from the norm can offer a great amount of stress relief. One of the best stress relievers is a good workout, but any kind of physical activity will do. Can't fit in time to exercise before or after work? Try going on a walk or making a short trip to the gym during your lunch break. Even short breaks from your desk help recharge your mind, so don't hesitate to take a lap around the office every once in a while. Physical activity is self rewarding; not only does exercise release mood-improving endorphins, but it also boosts energy and makes you feel good about yourself. That extra bit of confidence can supply you with higher self esteem and the motivation you need to combat the stressors in your life.

Sometimes the best way to deal with workplace stress is to talk to the right people. Notify your supervisor if you feel a lack of workplace communication is weighing you down, or if you feel you are pulling the weight of a slacking coworker. If you feel your workload is too much, talk to your supervisor about a compromise. Situations like harassment and discrimination are mental and emotional stressors that do not belong in the workplace setting; consequently, they can be more severe than other forms of stress and are more difficult to deal with. If you feel you are being treated unfairly or inappropriately at your job, talk to your human resources department and explain the situation—they have been trained to handle workplace situations of this type, and just talking with a neutral party can relieve some tension until the situation has been taken care of.

A lot of work stress can be relieved at home, but only if you keep your work life out of your personal life. Arrange to meet with your friends or family once a week for dinner, on the condition that only non work-related subjects can be discussed. Focusing on the areas of your life that bring you the most joy is a great way to prevent and relieve stress. Use your free time to spend time with family and friends, to partake in your favorite hobbies, and to relax—leave work out of it.