Why Employees are SO Stressed!
In current work environments, high levels of stress are incredibly common.
- Heavy Workloads
- Tight Deadlines
- Difficult Colleagues
But what about….
Lack of Control
Feeling like you have no control over your work environment, responsibilities, or outcomes is usually the first place to go to find what’s causing stress for many employees.
When employees feel like they have little or no control over their work environment or the tasks they are assigned, it can lead to feelings of helplessness and anxiety.
They feel….
- Micromanaged
- Like they have no say in decision-making
- Like they are unable to manage their own workload
- Dumped on by the employer
- Taken advantage of by the organization
This leads to challenges in…..
- Finding Motivation
- Staying Focused
- Feeling fulfilled in their job and in life
- Burnout
- Poor Mental Health
- Physical Health Problems
- Lower Productivity
- Lower Quality of Work
How You Can Help
So, what can you do as an employer to nurture AND empower your employees?
- Provide Autonomy: One of the best ways to combat a lack of control is to provide employees with more autonomy in their work. This can include giving employees more freedom to make decisions, allowing them to choose how they approach tasks, or giving them more control over their schedule.
- Communicate Clearly: Clear communication is essential in any workplace, but it is especially important when employees feel like they have no control. Employers should communicate expectations clearly and provide regular feedback to ensure employees feel informed and empowered.
- Involve Employees in Decision-Making: Inviting employees to participate in decision-making can be a powerful way to give them more control over their work environment. It can also help employers make better decisions by tapping into the expertise and knowledge of their team.
- Support Professional Development: Providing opportunities for professional development can give employees a sense of control over their career trajectory. Whether it’s training, mentorship, or opportunities for growth within the organization, supporting employee development can help employees feel more in control of their career.
- Foster a Positive Work Environment: A positive work environment can help employees feel more in control by fostering a sense of community and support. Employers can create a positive work environment by promoting open communication, celebrating successes, and encouraging collaboration.
By empowering employees and giving them more control over their work, organizations can create a healthier, more productive workplace and really, truly honor the human beings that drive their mission.