Sixth Sense: Dealing With Stress

Demanding jobs, tight deadlines, dangerous conditions, difficult situations. Sound familiar? Life can be overwhelming at times.

Talk Business & Politics asked six leaders for tips and strategies on managing the daily stress we face.

Kevin Trainor
Associate Athletic Director for Public Relations
University of Arkansas Department of Intercollegiate Athletics
Fayetteville

For as long as there has been competition, the world of athletics has been recognized for its stressful environment. The thin line between Hall of Famers and those who simply played the game is largely defined by how athletes react in stressful situations.

Working in athletics can also be stressful. Crisis management is not a responsibility you choose, it is one that chooses you, and often at a moment’s notice.

In 20 years, I have faced many stressful high-profile crises and while they differ, there are fundamentals that can be applied to any line of work. Much like a quarterback leading a final-minute drive, rely on your instincts and your expertise. Take time to call a trusted colleague and get an unbiased outside perspective. Concentrate on what you CAN do, not what you cannot. Finally, take a deep breath and get back in there. It’s game time!

Tamitha Jackson
Legislative Analyst/Journal Clerk
Arkansas House of Representatives
Little Rock

After 12 years with the Legislature, I’ve learned that time management, the support of a great staff and a 30-minute walk help alleviate my daily stress.

During my first legislative session, I tried to juggle my routine responsibilities and my legislative session duties. I quickly realized I needed to utilize my time and prioritize elements of my job. Fortunately, I work with a wonderful group of people who recognize when I’m overwhelmed and are there for support.

Walking has become my therapy. Just a short walk at lunch clears my head and motivates me for the afternoon session. Walking is also beneficial in maintaining my weight. When I’m feeling stressed I tend to reach for comfort food.

I’m grateful to have a job I love, but it can be quite stressful at the Capitol. Stress can be manageable. You just have to find what works for you.

Lt. Carl Minden
Public Information Officer
Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office
Little Rock

Dealing with stress as a police officer and a media relations contact is often times overwhelming. Normal police work has its moments anyway, but throw in some cameras and microphones and the pressure starts to mount. I find the best way to deal with the stress is to try to slow down and focus on getting the task completed.

I keep the mantra “DWI!” on a bulletin board by my desk. This DWI doesn’t have anything to do with drinking and driving. It stands for “Deal With It.”

The stressors are not going to go away by avoiding them. Face them head on and get it over with. Something might not go exactly how you wanted it to, but at least it is off your plate and you can move on to the next crisis.

 

Jonathan Crossley
English Language Arts Teacher/2014 Arkansas Teacher of the Year
Palestine-Wheatley High School
Palestine

Physical activity and reflection keep me going. After a long day or week, I find it necessary to hit the gym. When I come home, endorphins flowing, I think about my performance as a teacher. What could I improve? Could I have handled a given situation better? Then, I talk it out with loved ones. When I bottle up my emotions, my students and fellow teachers suffer.

All professionals need to find the activities and processes that give them peace. We are not ONLY employees, we are humans. Self-preservation is an important piece to the puzzle of success. As Teacher of the Year, my schedule demands that I find the best and most personal methods for maximizing my time. When I allot myself needed reflection, I am a much better teacher, leader and professional.

Brigette Williams
Communications Information Officer
American Red Cross in Arkansas
Little Rock

Because the American Red Cross responds to disasters, one never knows what will happen from one moment to the next – an apartment fire at 2 a.m. displacing hundreds of people, a tornado affecting thousands, or a disaster on the other side of the world impacting Arkansans in a personal way. Events such as these, in addition to the usual daily items, can suddenly increase stress levels.

No matter how hectic things become, a few things provide me moments of Zen:

Music relaxes as well as provides focus. It’s on all of the time in my office, car and home.

As cliché’ as it sounds, laughter is a must. People may be surprised how sharing a laugh can release stress when shared with others under pressure.

And, acknowledging gratitude within the moment – of being able to help others and of being witness to the resiliency of people to persevere.

Nick Genty
News Director
KATV Channel 7
Little Rock

When it all comes down at one time in my business, I rely on several things to cope.

Delegate. Talk with your key managers and get them involved with scheduling employees and assign these managers with tasks to help take them off your plate.

Prioritize. I keep a legal pad on my desk where I write down key words that keep me on track to accomplish certain things within the day, and other tasks that can be accomplished the next day or during the week.

Close the door. Most managers use the “open-door policy,” but sometimes you have to shut the door and focus down on a task that has to be completed.

Breathe. Take a walk around the building, take a five-minute drive, escape and let your mind rest.

Take care of yourself. Eat right, get enough sleep, drink plenty of water and engage in regular physical activity.