frustratedWe spend quite a bit of time in the office. Some might argue that we spend more time at work than we do at home. However, unlike the comforts of your humble abode, work can be riddle with stressful situations that ultimately halt productivity. The 2015 Work Management Survey revealed that “34% of workers are unhappy with their company’s process of managing work” and “over 34% of workers attend 6 or more meetings a week.” In addition to these key findings, the Wrike report also listed some of the most frequent work stressors: 

Accountability Issues

As technology becomes increasingly necessary for cross-country collaboration, team building, and project progression, there needs to be transparency. Providing resources to all team members equally, and accurately reflecting real-time individual progress by making sure all pieces of the puzzle are laid out and accessible, will alleviate the stress of information gaps and roadblocks. Employees also feel a stronger sense of accountability if they can actively see the progress each team member has made or is making. If someone hits a dead end, another team member can reach out and assist the situation quickly.

Shifting Deadlines

While we all value flexibility, it is also important not to abuse the patience of others. An assignment due in two weeks shouldn’t be pushed up to a 24 hour deadline, just as a 48 hour deadline shouldn’t be extended by two weeks at the last minute. That being said, in such a fast paced market, it is crucial that employees realize that some changes are inevitable and instead of stressing out, they should find an alternative way to regroup and cope.

Unrealistic Project Goals

Whether its due to a lack of communication or insufficient work-power, unrealistic project goals or deadlines can create a resentful, frustrated, or even apathetic team. It is important for employees to be honest with one another and higher management regarding what projects their working on, external due dates, and how far along they are with each task. Managing expectations across the board will keep the entire team on task, focused, and expectant of mutually agreed upon standards.

While there are many other stressors we encounter on a daily bases, these three can be remedied with just a bit more consideration and care.