36 Almost Effortless Ways to Make Your Work Day Less Stressful

Work on one thing at a time

Today’s office worker changes tasks an average of every three minutes. Such a lightning-speed day of interruptions is helped along by the multi-tasking made possible by computers. Working on eight things at once might seem impressive, but it isn’t. Rather, it is exhausting, inefficient, and highly stressful. So, instead of constantly checking e-mails, having two or three documents open on your screen, or returning e-mails as they come in, structure your day to focus on one thing at a time. In particular, start your day by blocking out two hours for uninterrupted hands-on work. During this time, do not answer your phone or check e-mails. Then check e-mails and respond all at once. Go to lunch. Structure your afternoon in the same way. Designate a time immediately after lunch and an hour before you leave for returning calls. These are silent signs that stress is making you sick.

The post 36 Almost Effortless Ways to Make Your Work Day Less Stressful appeared first on Reader's Digest.