Stressful work environments are one of the number one causes of depression and unhappiness. If you have to go everyday to a place where people argue and fight, or where you feel uncomfortable, it can lead to hopeless feelings. While the average person is not going to love their work every day they are in the office, they should at least feel productive and treated humanely. If co-workers or supervisors are verbally abusive, neglectful, or intimidating, you may find yourself desperate for a new job. The problem is, leaving your current job may not be an option. You may be tied to your current position, or you may have found the perfect job you do not want to leave. However, difficult interpersonal relationships can ruin a perfectly wonderful opportunity. Whether co-workers do not bother to change ink refills or toner refills, or frequently experience communication problems that make your job impossible, you can solve the problem.
No one should have to suffer a feeling of dread when Monday morning rolls around. Everyone good and bad days, but a sense of impending doom, week after week, creates levels of stress that can affect your health in a negative way. Work conditions can deteriorate to the point of emotional distress rather quickly, so keep tabs on your environment and be sure to communicate openly with coworkers, supervisors, and your human resources department. As a matter of fact, the HR department should be one of your first lines of defense if there is a serious problem in your office. The HR department can serve as an intermediary if you are unable to it impossible to speak with the problem coworker. Having a third party present when you communicate with a problem coworker can go a long way in assuring healthy, open communication.
If your workplace issues are small, you may be able to solve them without ever speaking with a third party. Are you uncomfortable with certain remarks made in your office? Your best bet may be to learn to ignore the opinions of others. If you have a coworker who tried to get too personal, just smile and walk away. If someone is pushy and invades your space, move your chair and desk in a manner to block their entry. If a cubicle mate talks endlessly or spends time in personal conversation that disturbs you and keeps you from your work, consider wearing headphones or listening to the radio during the workday. Balancing interpersonal relationships in the workplace can be a challenge. If you find yourself pulling your hair out over difficult coworkers or work situations, examine your options and try to be patient.