Let's talk life ... 'Work worries!'

• 'Work worries!'

ear Counsellor,

I am having problems at my workplace. I get frustrated and sometimes I want to quit. I am going back to school and hope to branch out into another profession.

- Mary

Dear Mary,

Stress at the workplace is real and challenging. These days, it is more stressful because there is more work and fewer people to carry out the tasks.

There are practical issues to be considered. We all need to work in order to occupy our time and to pay the bills. There is no one job that we will be doing for the rest of our lives. Jobs change, workers change, and change is constant. You are doing the right thing by widening your options and going back to school.

Keeping ourselves informed and up to date is very important these days. When we are armed with the knowledge and skills, we will be able to make changes in our favour. It is wise to keep ourselves abreast of the job market. Look in the newspapers for the jobs that are advertised. A variety of jobs are advertised and they usually have information on the desired skills, techniques, and qualifications. You can work towards particular jobs with certain skill sets.

These days, going back to school is made easier with distance learning and Internet training. We need to be aware of the administrative, financial, and technical aspects of any job to make us marketable. As you know, you can make vertical or horizontal changes at the workplace. As people age, they want to do new things and try out new ventures.

Volunteering is good as it is beneficial to both parties. It gives us the means of meeting significant people and gaining valuable experiences. The experiences gained can allow you to make career changes.

Many times, we feel discouraged and frustrated at the workplace. We need to evaluate ourselves and our work to identify what changes are needed. We need to be guided by God as to what our purposes and goals are in life. With God as your guide, seek the best that life has to offer.

• Help with time management

Dear Counsellor,

I am 35 years old, married with two children, a professional, and an avid Christian. I have difficulty managing my time and completing my activities. I would like some suggestions as to how to cope.

- Valerie

Dear Valerie,

Life is a challenge and we have to organise ourselves and prioritised our activities. We need data, and to analyse that data, you need to make a list of all the activities in which you are involved. With this list, you will be able to see how your time is being spent. Taking care of yourself, looking after your husband and children, and working are your priorities. Your relationship with God takes centre stage and he will direct your path. In life, you need to set goals, prioritise your activities, and plan your strategies. There are only 24 hours in a day and you need time to sleep. Sleep regenerates your body and refreshes your spirit.

We all need help from others to function effectively. Your family of origin and extended family can help you with childcare activities. You may be able to carpool with friends or co-workers. Stress management and the pursuit of happiness are at the forefront of our lives. We need to manage the stressors and our responses to them. Sometimes we overgeneralise and ascribe negative thoughts towards activities. We need a positive attitude, combined with tolerance and persistence. What is required of us is a commitment towards our tasks so that our goals can be achieved.

Email questions and feedback for Dr Yvonnie Bailey-Davidson to yvonniebd@hotmail.com or call 978-8602.