4. Stressed to the limit

Stress is not an illness or a negative condition. A certain amount of pressure brings out the best in work. In initial stages of stress there is a sensation of excitement and increased mental consideration.

However, too much stress is negative. It is bad for the individual. It is also bad for the employing organization. In the UK, for example, stress-related illness is the cause of half of lost working days.

The negative impact of stress is linked to heart disease, alcoholism, nervous breakdown, job dissatisfaction, certain forms of cancer, migraines, asthma, hay fever, insomnia, depression, eczema and many other medical and social problems.

Many surveys confirm the root cause of work-related stress to be bad management and overwork. Too much pressure, long hours and poor communication are the main factors. Reports and studies have identified the principal cause of stress as “new management techniques” designed to “improve performance”. Polices such as “performance-related pay” increase stress and demotivate a work force.

Many legal and medical experts are advising companies to consider the costs and legal implications of stress-related illness. They emphasize the benefits of reducing stress as: better health, reduced sickness absence, increased performance and output, better relationship with clients and colleagues, lower staff turnover.

Taking the decision to reduce stress makes sound business sense. It’s better for profits and better for staff morale.

Managers should learn to motivate but not exhaust employees. There is a balance between obtaining maximum efficiency, and a worker’s need to rest and recuperate their creative energies.