Stress in business: how to recognize and reduce stress

Pressure, deadlines, constant availability: stress is a normal part of everyday business life for many people. But what happens when the pressure becomes a chronic burden - and what can you actively do about it?
In this article, you will find out what stress in business actually is, how you can recognize symptoms early on and how you can provide yourself with long-term relief - scientifically sound, practical and with a clear view of your needs.

What is stress in a business context?

Stress in the professional environment is caused by the interplay of internal drivers and external demands. While short-term stress - also known as eustress - can have a motivating effect, chronic distress often leads to health problems. problemsinner restlessness or even burnout.

Typical causes of occupational stress

Work-related stress has many faces. The most common triggers are

  • Tight deadlines and high time pressure
  • Unclear responsibilities and lack of structures
  • Conflicts within the team or with superiors
  • Constant availability (e.g. via email, Slack or WhatsApp)
  • High demands on yourself

Positive vs. negative stress

Not all stress is harmful. Positive stress drives us on, increases our concentration and helps us achieve our goals. But if there are no breaks, the demands are permanently too much or there is no sense of self-efficacy, the system breaks down. This is exactly where the risk of chronic stress begins.

Stress in business is treacherous - it often begins insidiously and is ignored for a long time in everyday life.

Symptoms - How business stress manifests itself

Stress is insidious - it often begins insidiously and is ignored for a long time in everyday life. Yet your body sends out early Warning signalsthat you should take seriously.

Common signs of occupational stress

The symptoms vary from person to person. Frequently occur:

  • Problems falling asleep and brooding at night
  • Lack of concentration and irritability
  • Tension, headaches or back pain
  • Increased susceptibility to infections
  • Emotional exhaustion and indifference

If you notice one or more of these signs permanently, it's time for a conscious course correction.

Strategies for coping with stress at work

You can't breathe away constant stress with just a few breaths. But there are concrete ways to help you deal better with pressure and overload - both mentally and organizationally.

Preventive measures in everyday working life

The best anti-stress measures work if you apply them regularly:

  • Prioritize: Use tools such as the Eisenhower matrix or the Pareto principle (80/20) to gain clarity.
  • Incorporate breaks: Allow yourself micro-breaks every 60-90 minutes - ideally without a screen.
  • Learning to say no: Set healthy boundaries, e.g. by having a clear end to the working day.
  • Ergonomic workstation: A calm, uncluttered environment reduces mental overstimulation.

Accept help: Coaching, mentoring & co.

If you are under a lot of pressure at work, you sometimes need new perspectives. External support can provide you with targeted relief.

"Stress is not a sign of weakness, but a signal that something can be changed."
- Christina Hommelsheim, Greator Life Coach

Coaching helps you to recognize blockages and develop concrete strategies for action. Mentoring, on the other hand, offers you orientation through experience and exchange.

For stress in business: studies show: Just a few minutes of daily mindfulness help to calm the nervous system and the carousel of thoughts.

Targeted relaxation training - with meditation & co.

Meditation is no longer an esoteric trend, but a scientifically proven stress buffer. Studies show: Just a few minutes of daily mindfulness help to calm the nervous system and the carousel of thoughts.

Start with the Greator meditation challenge

If you are looking to get started: Our free meditation challenge supports you in cultivating serenity and mental clarity in everyday life - even with a tight schedule.

👉 Take part now and treat yourself to little oases of peace every day - without any prior knowledge.
Start here for free

Stress in business: mentoring vs coaching

Mentoring and coaching are both powerful formats for professional development - but with clearly different focuses. Especially in the context of stress, it is worth taking a differentiated view.

Differences at a glance

CriterionMentoringCoaching
Target groupCareer starters, menteesSpecialists and managers
FocusSharing experience and orientationGoal-oriented self-reflection
DurationDesigned for the long termShort to medium term
Role of the accompanying personPersonal guide with empirical valuesNeutral, structuring source of inspiration

When does which format fit?

  • Mentoring is particularly suitable for orientation in new roles or phases.
  • Coaching is ideal if you want to actively initiate change and develop new strategies - e.g. for coping with stress.

Conclusion: less stress, more clarity

Stress in business is not a weakness - it's a signal. Those who recognize it early and take action not only protect their health, but also create space for clarity, focus and professional satisfaction.

Use tools such as meditation, prioritization or professional support to create a healthy working environment. You don't have to walk this path alone - support is there if you need it.

Free burnout test

Take our burnout test and find out whether you the first signs of burnout - and what can help you now.
Start free trial

Like this article? Don't forget to share!

Worth reading: Recommendations from the Greator experts
GREATOR MAGAZINE
Greator Slogan: It's in youGreator awards: Innovation Champion 2024 from Focus, Kununu Top Company 2023-2025, Great Place to Work certified 2020-2024 and World's Best Employer 2023.
Greator Slogan: It's in youGreator awards: Innovation Champion 2024 from Focus, Kununu Top Company 2023-2025, Great Place to Work certified 2020-2024 and World's Best Employer 2023.
Helpcenter
Imprint
Data privacy
GTC
Cookie settings
© copyright by Greator 2025
chevron-down