Anchor on the good and diarise some fun

YOUR stress response –- at work, or anywhere else –- is determined not by what happens out there, but by how you respond to it. Here are some strategies for shifting your stress response at work.

• Take stock of good stuff

Sure, there are lots of areas that could use improvement at your workplace – but what have you accomplished, contributed, and enjoyed in your role at work in the past week, the past year? Maybe you like your team or just received public praise for solving a major problem. Perhaps you've put new systems in place that have made a world of difference in the way you and your colleagues work.

Or it could be as simple as loving your easy commute or having a view of the sea.

Rather than get caught up in what's giving you a headache, anchor yourself each day with the things that are going well.

• Invest in yourwork relationships

You probably see your work colleagues more than you see anyone else. And while they don't all have to be "besties", the quality of those relationships will see you through the roughest storms at work.

Give to those connections what you need most –- support, camaraderie, friendship. Forge real connections by taking breaks together, getting lunch or drinks. When you show up for co-workers in real ways, you'll reap the rewards in return.

• Know why you're there

A salary and benefits may be two driving reasons, but it doesn't end there. Our research shows that nurturing a connection to the people, and the purpose of your work, builds resilience against the downward spiral of stress.

Zoom out: What are you doing every day? Improving others' lives with the goods or services you offer? Helping clients through difficulties? Using your skills to contribute to the greater good?

• Schedule more than just meetings

Put relaxing, fun and social events on your calendar. Make it a point to get out for a walk at lunch and to meet up with friends for dinner every week.

It's not a matter of whether you have time -- you can't afford not to do the things that keep you calm, revitalised, and engaged.