When "yes" feels like a punch in the stomach
The clock shows 4:15 PM. A colleague asks you to take her shift this weekend. Without thinking, you reply yes. At first, you feel helpful, but then the heavy feeling comes. Your stomach tightens, and irritation grows. You said yes again, even though you wanted to spend the weekend doing something else.
Why boundaries can trigger stress in the workplace
This is a common pattern among employees who want to be there for colleagues but end up sacrificing their own needs. When a request – a trigger – activates a stored expectation that one must comply to be liked or avoid conflict, a stress response is created. This can affect both well-being and productivity in the team.
When employees feel pressured to say yes, this can lead to higher absenteeism and reduced work effort. Therefore, it is crucial to provide employees with the tools they need to set healthy boundaries.
How StoppStress can help you train new reactions
StoppStress is a digital stress management program designed to help employees cope with stress through memory reconsolidation. Through the program, employees can:
- Trigger mapping: Use the Harmoni app to identify situations where they often say yes against their will. Notice the physical and emotional reactions that arise.
- StoppStress exercise: The next time they find themselves in a similar situation, take a moment before responding. Feel how the body reacts. Breathe deeply and activate the vagus nerve. Quietly tell themselves: "It's okay to say no."
- Changing beliefs: Challenge stored expectations that they must say yes to be accepted. Use the AI guidance in Harmoni to explore alternative thoughts and beliefs.
Change takes time and requires practice. By using the StoppStress program, employees can gradually learn to set boundaries, which can lead to a better work environment and reduced absenteeism.
Implementing StoppStress in your company
To implement the StoppStress program in your company, you can start by giving employees access to the Harmoni app. Encourage them to use the program in their own time and offer support through workshops and training. This can help create a culture where it is accepted to set boundaries and take care of one's health.
Do you want to work further on this?
Visit stoppstress.no for more information on how StoppStress can help your company reduce absenteeism and improve the work environment.
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Do you want to reduce absenteeism in your company?
The StoppStress program uses memory reconsolidation to provide employees with lasting tools against stress. Read more at stoppstress.no →