Yet, for most of us, work is a necessary evil – it’s not like you can easily “call in stressed” because the headlines are out of control. And while work remains a constant, it can also be a semblance of normalcy. All of that being said, balancing professional responsibilities while grappling with external stressors is no small feat.

Here are some strategies to navigate this delicate equilibrium.

• Recognize and Validate Your Feelings: Before attempting to combat stress, acknowledge its presence. Understand that it’s entirely natural to feel anxious, overwhelmed, or disheartened given the circumstances. Giving yourself permission to feel provides a starting point from which to move forward.
• Stay Informed, but Set Boundaries: While it’s crucial to remain informed about global events, incessantly consuming news can exacerbate stress levels. Designate specific times in the day to check updates and avoid doom-scrolling. Consider reliable news summaries that provide essential information without overwhelming details.
• Establish a Routine: In unpredictable times, routines can be grounding. Having a set schedule for work, breaks, and personal time provides a sense of control amidst chaos. If your routine gets disrupted, strive to return to it or adapt as needed.
• Prioritize Essential Tasks: Given the emotional and mental toll of external stressors, it’s unlikely that one can maintain their usual productivity levels. Focus on top-priority tasks. Break larger projects into manageable steps and celebrate small achievements to maintain momentum.
• Practice Mindfulness and Meditation: Grounding exercises, such as deep breathing or meditation, can be immensely beneficial. They can help detach from the external chaos, center oneself, and regain focus. Even just a few minutes daily can make a difference.
• Seek Support: Remember that you’re not alone in feeling the weight of the world. Engage in conversations with colleagues, friends, or family. Sharing concerns and feelings can provide emotional relief. If work permits, consider group sessions or counseling services to address collective anxiety.
• Take Regular Breaks: Continuous work, especially in a heightened state of stress, can lead to rapid burnout. Ensure you take short, regular breaks during the day to stretch, hydrate, or simply disconnect. These breaks can act as a reset, enhancing overall productivity.
• Limit Multitasking: In times of stress, cognitive resources are already spread thin. Multitasking can further dilute concentration. Focus on one task at a time, which not only enhances efficiency but can also reduce feelings of being overwhelmed.
• Create a Dedicated Workspace: If possible, separate your work environment from relaxation spaces at home. This physical boundary can help mentally segregate work-related tasks from personal relaxation time, aiding in the detachment process after work hours.
• Reconnect with Your ‘Why’: Remind yourself of the purpose behind your work. Reconnecting with this can offer a broader perspective and a sense of purpose, making it easier to navigate day-to-day tasks despite external challenges.

While the world feels especially out of control right now, personal resilience and our ability to be adaptable can be our greatest superpowers. Balancing productivity with self-care, especially during trying times, is not just beneficial for work but essential for overall well-being. Remembering that “This too shall pass” and knowing that, until then, compassion towards oneself and others is paramount.