In the best of times, with today's demanding pace of work, the level of sustained energy required to meet expectations can be hard to maintain. Particularly if you are in a customer service or public contact position, pouring your all into meeting client demands can take its toll. The phone never stop ringing, there is always another issue to deal with or question to answer. In situations where stress rises but never seems to lower, catching up becomes more unlikely daily, you may find yourself getting depressed. Workplace depression is no fun for the individual, but can also be costly to a company through reduced productivity and increased absenteeism. Clinical depression can be a very serious illness requiring proper diagnosis and treatment. Before things get that serious try these suggestions to refresh and renew yourself.

1. Focus on the positive. Keep in mind that most customers are happy with your company and its products and services. Try to keep your day's work in perspective. There is always good news, it is just often overwhelmed by the next call or problem. Focus on praise when you receive it. You probably get it more often than you realize and dismiss it with a "yeah, but" statement.
   
   
2. Seek calmness immediately before and after work. Restructure your morning routine so that it is relaxing. That may be reading the paper early, listening to music on the way to work or eating a leisurely breakfast. In high tension jobs, try to avoid adding work stress on top of life stress.
   
   
3. Never take the work personally or let your self esteem suffer. When a customer complains, it is not about you or your family. Remember that their frustration is based on their expectations of the company which were not matched by what occurred. You just happen to be the one who answered the phone. You become the human outlet for that anger and frustration.
   
   
4. Don't take the problems home. When you are at work, be there 100%, but leave it when you go home. Worrying about what is left on your desk or what might be upcoming just destroys your ability to rest and refresh yourself. Remember that whatever comes the next day will come with or without your worry and agony.
   
   
5. Get help. When you are feeling isolated, talk with coworkers. Whatever problems you are experiencing, they probably are also. Talking things over is often helpful and will make you feel better. When you are through complaining, do not forget to spend some time talking about the positive so you leave your conversation on an up note.
   
   
6. Find ways to reduce stress. In other articles, we have discussed stress reduction techniques. These are really important. Exercise, deep breathing, taking a break, stretching, all help reduce high anxiety levels. During particularly stressful times, such as during the holidays or during a special sales promotion, allow yourself more sleep at night. You will need it.
   
   
7. Change your scene and your environment. Be sure to get away from work and take breaks regularly. Eat lunch away from your desk. Try to get out of the building. Go for a walk during your lunch to help regain your sense of calm.
   
   
8. Stay motivated. If you find affirmations and motivational quotes helpful, post a few close to your phone. Similarly, listening to motivational tapes during your commute can help the transition from work to home. Unwinding before arriving home allows you to move into the stream of things more easily.
   
   
9. Make time for your hobbies. When work is particularly draining, it is never more important to have something you enjoy and is fun. That balance helps offer a more realistic perspective on the work place. Fill your leisure time with rewarding things that have value for you.
   
   
10. Review your successes at the end of the day. Think about what you did well and congratulate yourself. Remember the number of times you were able to turn an angry call around. Tally up the good experiences you have had. You will probably be surprised at how many more pluses you experienced than minuses.