Stress Management Techniques used by High Level Executives
(431 Words)
Stress is common in people across all walks of life, but high level executives often juggle more than the average person. They are responsible for much within their companies, and often have busy home and social lives, as well. There are many stress management methods they find helpful.
Karen Sumberg, a vice-president at the Center for Work-Life Policy, performed a study of the stress of workers, after which she consulted with executives. The study found stress among many, and they learned about some innovative ways that stress can be alleviated. One way is through exercise.
Exercise can be extremely efficient at helping to reduce stress, and many high level executives take advantage of this technique. Some companies even have a gym within the company for the executives to utilize. Others offer a free gym membership as part of the benefits. Some high level executives enjoy sports such as racquetball. Some companies even had a personal trainer come in, according to Ms. Sumberg. Exercise can help produce helpful hormones and boost both physical and mental health.
Meditation
Meditation has been shown to decrease stress. It can help one remain focused, which is important for a high level executive. Some managers may buy tapes to which to listen while others will just relax and imagine themselves in a calm place. Some will just listen to relaxing music while they take a break for five minutes within their office.
Support
Even high level executives cannot do everything alone. Some help to manage their stress levels by seeking support from others. It may be work related by having an assistant to whom they can delegate. Others rely on family or close friends.
Read books
There are many books on both leadership and stress management. Many high level executives find relief with this. Some books they may choose include Getting Things Done: The Art of Stress-Free Productivity by David Allen, Five Good Minutes at Work: 100 Mindful Practices to Help You Relieve Stress & Bring Your Best to Work by Jeffrey, M.D. Brantley and Wendy Millstine and Managing Stress (Pocket Mentor) by Harvard Business School Press.
Massage
Many people imagine high level executives having a masseuse come into their office during break time, and some do this. Others will utilize different spa services. Some will even just buy an expensive chair that has a massager built in such as the HT Massage Chair iJoy-2580 Massage Chair, Black by Human Touch.
It is very important for high level executives to control their stress. The above stress-reducing techniques are some commonly used by such professionals.
Sources:
http://www.businessweek.com/managing/special_reports/20090724executive_stress.htm
http://www.the-chiefexecutive.com/features/feature174/