All work and no play

THE WORD 'relaxed' sounds irrelevant in this fast-paced life. In our bid to be achievers in the shortest possible time, most of us have turned wor kaholic.

Srinath is an executive in a leading software company. The innumerable professional problems and growing competition make each day a new challenge for him.

His day usually starts at 8 a.m., when he gets up thinking about office. It's then a mad hurry. After a quick breakfast and driving through the chaotic traffic, Srinath somehow makes it to the office just on time for an important meeting. But work can begin only after gulping down a hot cup of coffee. Sometimes when the pressure is too much, he prefers black coffee. He can do without breakfast or lunch, but not without coffee. Try advising him on this, and chances of your being snubbed are high.

After tea and coffee, he wants a cigarette. He tries to blow away his worries over the 23 presentations to be made for the investors, through the smoke.

By afternoon, when his stomach starts growling, he just orders a club sandwich, which he munches while poring over the papers on his table. If hunger persists, he may go down to the fast food joint at the street end for a quick bite. It's only while eating that he gets some time to think about himself and his mechanical life. He laments not being able to give enough time to family and friends.

Back in office, there is more and more work. Suddenly, he realises it is 9-00 p.m. and time to get back home. When he returns, he hardly has any energy left to talk to his wife. Children are busy watching TV or have gone to sleep. After dinner, over a glass of beer, he again thinks about the day gone by and starts planning for the next day.

According to a recent study by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), one in five employees is stressed at work. The HSE found that the higher you rise in position, the greater the stress. Having a stressed workforce can cost a company dear in terms of productivity and creativity. Surveys show that people are working increasingly long hours, travelling frequently and do not0 have time to unwind. The Meridian Stress Management figures prove this.

Hence, companies are looking for ways to rejuvenate their employees. Going to hill stations or retreats are not the only option. Companies are also introducing their staff to yoga and meditation. Besides, most of them have realised the need to be sensitive to the problems of the employees, which will lead to a positive work culture. This is the new mantra for success in the corporate world.

PADMAVATHI

SRINIVASAN

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