"Only when one has clarity of mind can one strategize effectively," These memorable words from the CEO of General Electric, Kevin Cox, reflect the vital importance of Stress Management in the corporate world. Stress, if unaddressed, can impair cognitive function and decision-making ability—two skills vital for Fortune 500 C-level executives.

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The Prevalence and Impact of Stress

According to a study by the American Institute of Stress, 80% of workers feel stress on the job and nearly half say they need help in learning how to manage stress. This high prevalence of stress undoubtedly affects individuals performing high-stakes roles, such as C-level executives. A report by McKinsey & Company highlighted the impact of executive stress on overall organizational performance. Their findings suggested that high levels of stress can hamper Strategic Planning, hurt team dynamics, and lead to poor business decisions.

Stress Management is the use of techniques to control a person's levels of stress, especially chronic stress, to improve everyday functioning. For C-level executives, successful implementation of such techniques can result in improved Business Transformation efforts, higher Operational Excellence, and agile Strategy Development among other benefits.

Explore related management topics: Operational Excellence Business Transformation Strategic Planning Strategy Development Agile

Effective Stress Management Techniques

Here are some tested Stress Management techniques, developed by top-tier management consulting firms and supported by rigorous research:

• Practice Mindfulness: The Harvard Business Review suggests that mindfulness can reduce symptoms of stress and improve focus, leading to better decision-making.
• Time Management: Prioritization and effective delegation have been endorsed by leadership advisors at Bain & Company as vital tactics to manage stress. They argue that a disciplined approach to time allocation can significant reduce stress levels.
• Physical Exercise: McKinsey & Company, in their Executive Briefing, notes the benefits of regular physical exercise in managing stress. Our bodies release endorphins, or "feel-good" hormones, during exercise, which can help alleviate feelings of stress.
• Healthy Lifestyle Choices: An Accenture report on executive health champions a balanced lifestyle with adequate sleep, a healthy diet and moderate consumption of alcohol and caffeine.

Explore related management topics: Leadership

Implementing Stress Management at an Organizational Level

Organizations seeking to manage and reduce executive stress levels can take strategic steps. Deloitte’s 2020 Global Human Capital Trends report emphasized the role of corporate culture in managing stress. A culture of trust and openness was found to be conducive to stress management. In addition, designing workspaces with stress reduction in mind—for instance, quiet areas for focused work or relaxation—can also aid Stress Management.

PwC's report on Biophilic Design in the Workplace stressed the importance of incorporating natural elements into office design to lower stress. The addition of live plants, sunlight, and natural materials in office spaces was shown to have a positive effect on employees' mental health and stress levels.

Explore related management topics: Corporate Culture

Technology's Role in Stress Management

With the rise of Digital Transformation, technology also plays an integral part in Stress Management. Apps designed for mindfulness and relaxation exercises, or to promote better sleep, are increasingly being utilized by executives. The Future of Work report by Forrester highlights that employers are now offering access to such apps as part of their wellness programs, demonstrating acceptance of technology as part of a comprehensive approach to Stress Management.

Explore related management topics: Digital Transformation

The Bottom Line

Stress Management is a crucial facet of corporate health and increasingly, an essential part of Leadership and Culture of organizations. A thoughtful, strategic approach to stress, combined with individual and organizational techniques, can help executives function more effectively and enhance overall business performance.