People are always talking about needing to leave work at the office but most of them don’t have a clue about the stress involved in jobs like debt collecting. I’ve learned the hard way that debt collecting is definitely a job that requires I learn how to de-stress. I found that I just cannot bring all the negativity of the job home with me and keep my sanity. Here are a few simple strategies to de-stress and create life/work balance:
Burn Off That Stress
After a long day of dealing with angry people, I used to need a nap or a drink or do anything other than moving. But then I learned about the powerful effects of music and movement. Losing myself in a Zumba class helps melt away my stress and calories too. Moving and grooving is a terrific stress buster. Yoga or meditation is very helpful too and you can do online classes at home. Or try going for a walk in the park while listening to your favorite tunes or an interesting book or podcast. Even short walks, done on a regular basis, have significant health benefits. Get moving!
Work Your Brain
I used to just want to zone out but I’ve found that exercising my brain makes me feel better than just watching mindless television. By reading, doing Sudoku, or even playing a video game, I’m working my brain and decompressing at the same time. Mind fitness is just as important as physical fitness in dealing with stress.
Sleep More
After your exercise class or bridge game, the next step is getting enough sleep. Studies have shown that most people should get about 8 hours of sleep a night and that sleep has serious health benefits. Sleep lets your mind and body recharge. I’ve learned with more sleep I can think more clearly and can respond better to stress at work.
Positive Attitude
It sounds so simple but keeping a positive attitude really does help. When people are yelling nasty things at me as I’m trying to collect money, I remind myself that they aren’t mad at me personally. They are stressed and just trying to de-stress in a negative way. Rather than get angry in response, I can choose to understand their stress and decide not to bring it back home with me.
