If you can’t switch off after work, it may be because you’re still trying to sort out something that feels unfinished. You might be going over a conversation, wondering whether you’ve done enough, or thinking about what’s waiting for you tomorrow. It’s exhausting when the part of the day that’s meant to be yours still feels like work.
Last week was International Stress Awareness Week. It’s a good time to ask what happens when the working day ends and the stress carries on.
What can I do to switch off after work?
Before you finish, write down what’s still on your mind and one thing you’ll do about it tomorrow. If you need to ask someone a question, write down the question and who you’ll ask. You can pick it up in the morning without having to keep going over it all evening.
If you can, give yourself a clear point at which work is finished. Close your email, put your laptop away and turn off work notifications if your role allows it. If you work from home, a short walk after you finish can give you a bit of time between work and the rest of your evening.
What if there’s simply too much to do?
If the work regularly takes more time than you have, it’s worth talking to your manager about what can realistically be done. Bring one or two examples of deadlines that clash and ask which work should come first. The HSE’s work stress toolkit has some useful questions if you’re unsure how to start that conversation.
What if I’m still thinking about work in bed?
If the same thought keeps coming up, write it down and decide when you’ll come back to it. If poor sleep or stress is regularly affecting your day, speak to your GP. You can also read more about how I work with sleep difficulties at my practice.
What happens in a hypnotherapy session for work stress?
We start by talking about what’s happening at work, what tends to follow you home, and what you’d like to change. I use hypnosis and coaching in my sessions for stress, and I’ll explain how I’d tailor the work to you.
I’m Susannah Saunders, a clinical hypnotherapist. I see clients at Longcroft House, near Liverpool Street station, and online. If you’d like to talk about what’s been happening and whether hypnotherapy might suit you, get in touch.
Photo by Clint Patterson on Unsplash.
