If you’re feeling like the weight of the world is making it hard to just…be chill, you’re not alone. But Glassdoor Community members are finding simple yet impactful ways to deal with stress.
Whether you're dealing with job search challenges, navigating career change anxiety, or just trying to maintain work-life balance in an increasingly demanding work world, these worker-tested strategies can help. Check out these tips from workers like you on how to decompress and build resilience in your career.
- Prioritize spending time with family, friends, (and pets)
When workplace stress reduction techniques feel overwhelming, sometimes the simplest solution is reconnecting with the people (and furry friends) who matter most — a good reminder that life exists beyond your inbox.
“Spending time with my kids, working out, taking my dog on a walk, reading a good book. And if all else fails, pouring a whiskey and firing up a WWII documentary as I melt into the couch.” - Manager 1
“All of the above + other which is my baby smiling at me.” - Director 1
- Make gratitude part of your daily routine
Building resilience in your career often starts with shifting your perspective, and many professionals find that gratitude practices help them navigate even the most frustrating workdays.
“Thoughts of gratitude can help a lot. When I want to gripe about work, I remind myself that I'm thankful to have a job.” - Credit Analyst 1
“As "cheesy" as it sounds, reminding myself that I have a job in this insane market, have a roof over my head, have food in my fridge, and have clothes on my back can be really helpful when I'm ready to rage quit and walk out the door in the middle of the workday.” - Marketing Manager 1
- Find small and big moments to decompress
Effective stress management tips for professionals don't require expensive retreats or hour-long meditations. Sometimes a walk around the block or permission to be "lazy" is exactly what your mental health in the workplace needs.
“I'd say exercise also helps, I try to take long walks at least a few times a week. It's nice having that time to myself, I can move around and clear my mind and just forget work for a time.” - Credit Analyst 1
“I still complain lol with the rest of the ppl I work with. But I do take almost daily hikes outside with my bud lol
I also like to decompress with a good movie or binging on a show. Basically being lazy lol” - Michigan Middle School Teacher 1
“Take an insane amount of breaks to deal with the insane amount of work stress.” Dentsu 1
The thread that connects all these approaches is simple: small, consistent actions can make a big difference in managing workplace stress and protecting your mental health. Whether it's a five-minute gratitude practice, a walk with your dog, or giving yourself permission to binge-watch a show, the key is finding what works for you and making it a regular part of your routine. After all, building resilience isn't about eliminating stress entirely — it's about developing the tools to handle whatever your workday throws at you.