Top Ten Tips for Managing Workplace Stress

As an accountant, you operate in a fast-paced environment where deadlines, client expectations and the need for precision all pose unique challenges. Balancing financial complexities with regulatory compliance can result in long hours, intense workloads and, at times, elevated stress levels. Left unmanaged, workplace stress can affect wellbeing, job satisfaction and productivity.

However, stress is not always inherently negative; it can be a good motivator. Some people even thrive on it. However, chronic stress can lead to burnout, poor performance and a multitude of health issues. Here are ten practical strategies to help you manage workplace stress effectively and maintain a healthy work-life balance.

1. Recognise stress triggers

The first step to managing stress is identifying its sources. Common triggers include tight deadlines, seasonal tax-related pressures, conflicting client demands and reporting errors. Reflect on the moments when you feel most stressed and note any recurring patterns. Understanding these triggers allows you to develop targeted coping strategies that will help you relax.

Tip: Document any stressful incidents, their causes (if known), and your reactions. This can help you to identify trends and improve your stress response.

2. Prioritise and organise tasks

Effective time management is essential to reduce workplace stress. Planners, diaries and time-management tools can help you prioritise your workload and break large tasks into smaller, manageable steps. A visual tool can offer clarity and perspective and with practice you can confidently prioritise tasks based on their urgency and importance.

Tip: Use the Eisenhower Matrix, based on the management insights of ex-US president Dwight Eisenhower, to divide your tasks into four distinct areas:

• Those you’ll do first: urgent and important
• Those you’ll schedule for later: important but not urgent
• Those you’ll delegate: urgent but not important
• Those you’ll delete: neither urgent nor important)

The benefits of Eisenhower’s model include:

• increased productivity by drawing attention to tasks that will have the greatest impact;
• reduced stress by prioritising the most necessary tasks and allowing you not to tackle them all at the same time;
• better time management through greater focus on the most important or urgent tasks; and
• enhanced decision making by having a clear overview of what is important and what is unnecessary.

3. Set realistic expectations

Accountants often face high expectations from clients and employers. While striving for excellence is commendable, setting unrealistic goals can lead to errors, as well as frustration and eventual burnout. Tell your clients and colleagues which deliverables you can reasonably accomplish within the available timeframe.

Tip: Practice assertiveness. Politely decline tasks that exceed your ability or capacity. Delegate responsibilities where possible.

4. Establish healthy boundaries

The digital age blurs the line between work and home life balance, especially in remote or hybrid work settings. To maintain balance, set some clear working boundaries. You should designate specific work hours and try to stick to them where possible. Avoid checking your emails, do not start work-related tasks and avoid working on financial reports during your personal time.

Tip: Use out-of-office auto-replies and/or communicate your availability to colleagues to manage work-related expectations.

5. Practice stress-relief techniques

Incorporating stress-relief practices into your routine can help you to stay calm and focused. Techniques such as mindfulness, deep breathing, meditation and progressive muscle relaxation can lower stress levels and enhance mental clarity.

Tip: Spend five minutes daily on breath work (deep breathing exercises), often used in work coaching sessions. Inhale deeply for four counts, hold for four counts and exhale for six counts.

6. Take regular breaks

Prolonged focus on spreadsheets and reports can lead to mental fatigue. Short, regular breaks allow your brain to recharge and maintain efficiency. Walking, stretching or simply stepping away from your desk for a while can help to reinvigorate you.

Tip: Follow the Pomodoro Technique: work for 25 minutes and take a five minute break. After four cycles, take a longer 15 to 30 minute break.

7. Invest in an ergonomic workstation

Physical discomfort can exacerbate stress, especially if you spend hours at your desk. Invest in ergonomic office furniture where possible and maintain proper posture to reduce strain on your joints and muscles.

Tip: Position your monitor at eye level, keep your feet flat on the floor and use a chair with lumbar support. Consider using a standing desk or desk converter for added flexibility. If you do not have a designated workstation, think about where will offer you the most comfort in terms of warmth, noise, and the availability of refreshments and bathroom facilities.

8. Foster a supportive work environment

Building strong relationships with colleagues can create a sense of community and mutual support. Sharing experiences and seeking advice can help you to alleviate stress and improve workplace morale.

Tip: Join professional networks or forums for accountants to connect with peers who understand your specific work-related challenges.

9. Stay physically active

Exercise is a proven stress reliever that boosts endorphins and improves overall health. Regular physical activity can help you manage workplace stress and maintain energy levels.

Tip: Incorporate at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise into your day. Activities like yoga, jogging or even brisk walking can make a significant difference.

10. Seek professional help when needed

If workplace stress becomes overwhelming, don’t hesitate to seek professional support. Consulting a therapist, counsellor or work coach can provide valuable tools and perspectives to navigate work-related challenges effectively.

Tip: Many organisations offer Employee Assistance Programmes that include confidential counselling services. Find out if your employer offers such initiatives and use them when necessary. Keep numbers in your phone for easy access.

The role of resilience

In addition to these tips, cultivating resilience is key to managing workplace stress. Resilience involves adapting to adversity and bouncing back stronger. Develop a growth mindset by viewing challenges as opportunities to learn and grow. Ongoing self-reflection allows you to build emotional awareness and strengthen your problem-solving abilities.

Conclusion

Managing workplace stress is about learning to navigate work-related challenges effectively. By recognising triggers, prioritising tasks, setting boundaries and practising self-care, you can in turn reduce stress and enhance your professional and personal life. Resilience and wellbeing are foundational to sustained success in the demanding field of accounting.

As you implement these strategies, remember that stress management is a continuous process. Evaluate your approach regularly and adjust as necessary to maintain a healthy balance and thrive in your career.

 

Author bio

Emma Vinton is a Registered Mental Health Nurse, and Medical Writer at Educating Edward, a Newcastle-based firm specialising in psychiatry.

"Managing workplace stress is about learning to navigate work-related challenges effectively."

Emma Vinton, Registered Mental Health Nurse, and Medical Writer at Educating Edward