Overtime is inevitable for some companies. Although most companies prefer to only have their employees work 40 hours a week, there are a few times when they need extra hours. These employees may be dealing with stress and fatigue. What are some options for employees that work overtime? Here are a few things you can do:
Tip # 1 – Have a Quiet Work Environment
Even if you work in a factory, you need to find some time during the day to relax in a quiet environment. This could be the break room or even outside in your car. Whatever you decide, make sure you have plenty of time to relax in a quiet setting each day to give your body time to re-charge.
Tip # 2 – Have a Comfortable Chair or Work Station
It is easy to get fatigued if you sit in an uncomfortable chair all day. What about if you are required to stand all day? Ergonomic chairs can help you maintain good posture and anti-fatigue flooring mats can really reduce the stress and strain on your legs. Sitting on an exercise ball can also give your legs a little work-out while you are working. This can actually help your entire body because it forces you to have good posture. Bouncing throughout the day is also a fun way to work because it gives you time to focus on exercising for a few minutes.
Tip # 3 – Positive Attitude
Not everyone enjoys burning off the overtime hours, but it won’t be any better if you have a lousy attitude. Try to stay positive even though it can be overwhelming. If it’s getting dark outside, turn on another light in the office. Having a well-lit office will improve your attitude. Try turning on some positive music (make sure it doesn’t distract you from your job).
Tip # 4 – Have a Relaxation Session
Even though you want to get home as soon as possible, your overtime hours will go by a lot faster if you can plan for a relaxation session. Get some relaxing music and lay down in your car or under your desk for 10-15 minutes. Do not allow anything to bother you and concentrate on relaxing. You can keep your eyes open and focus on something for a few minutes or you can close your eyes and imagine yourself on an island or at a lake where you are completely alone and relaxed.
Tip # 5 – Talk to Your Doctor
If your company is in a busy season and you find yourself working lots of overtime, speak to your doctor about some options. You may be damaging your heart because you are under a great deal of stress. They may be able to prescribe some medication that can relax you. Another drug that has helped many people is called Provigil. Provigil gives you the energy you need to work without the aid of caffeine and energy drinks. You don’t even need to take naps when you are on Provigil. Individuals that have used Provigil are more productive and less tired. It will help you stay awake and have enough stamina and energy to work and it will wear off in about 7 hours, giving you plenty of time to wind-down and go to bed.
Provigil has been proven to help with attention deficit disorder and depression. Many people do not experience grogginess and drowsiness when the drug wears off. It is not recommended for everyone so it is important to speak with your doctor.
Tip # 6 – Eat Healthy
When people start working overtime, it is easy to slip into the junk food diet. Instead of grabbing for the soda and candy bars, bring some Vitamin Water and granola bars to work. These healthy alternatives will give you healthy energy and you won’t have the energy highs and lows that come with sugary snacks.