Pressure and stress are not easy to measure and we all react differently to stimuli. Is work feeling oppressive? Do you have money issues, relationship problems or other frustrations? Are they affecting your health or lifestyle?

At a very basic level people work for money to enable them to provide comfort and security. It is money that gets people out of bed but our desire is for people to bounce out of bed because the day is so full of possibilities and interest. Many people would argue their attitude to work would be different if money wasn’t an issue. However, in four studies in the USA, citizens received a guaranteed income and became more energised and productive either than laze the days away. Other research now puts $30000 per anum at the figure around which money ceases to be a motivator for most people, after that motivation comes from intrinsic sources – a message some managers haven’t heard or comprehended.

When the need for work is so integrated with the basics of life there is the stress that comes from knowing job loss would put many aspects in jeopardy.  The great thing about self-employment is you cannot be sacked; you may fail but at least you won’t be dismissed. It is actually very freeing.

Often “Office politics” is one of the things we are told is horrible and exhausting. Who said what to whom? About whom? What will the boss think? Who will receive credit for good ideas and scorn if things turn out badly? (Not necessarily the person or people who fouled up!) This is hardly a symptom of a cohesive team. If you are brutally honest with yourself, do you get involved? Would everyone’s life be better if there was no politics? Would the organisation be more productive? A very interesting guy, Oliver James, has written a book on the subject, cunningly entitled Office Politics.

It is also sad to relate pressures at work affect health and home life, especially relationships.

We have dedicated a whole section to health in this site, so please pay a lot of attention to ensuring yours is good.