59% experience high work pressure on a daily basis: here's how to deal with it

Do you sometimes feel overwhelmed by a growing to-do list or an overflowing inbox? You’re not alone. A recent survey conducted by recruitment specialist Robert Walters among Belgian professionals reveals that work pressure is a daily challenge for many. No less than 18% of respondents report feeling regularly overwhelmed by their workload, while 41% describe their daily tasks as structurally demanding. Only 6% consider their workload to be light.

Additionally, 84% of those surveyed regularly work outside regular office hours, often due to looming deadlines or accumulated backlog.

While work pressure doesn’t necessarily have to be negative – a healthy level of pressure can indeed boost performance and motivation – a structural imbalance between work and recovery can lead to reduced productivity, mistakes, and even burnout. To prevent this, Robbe Heymans, senior consultant at Robert Walters, shares some practical tips for managing busy periods at work more effectively.

1. Set micro-deadlines

“Instead of one big deadline that causes stress, you can break your tasks into smaller deadlines (for example: ‘this needs to be done before lunch’). This creates small moments of success and prevents your work from piling up until the last minute,” explains Robbe.

2. Focus on one thing at a time

“Multitasking may seem efficient, but the opposite is true. When you try to do multiple things at once, you divide your attention and are more likely to make mistakes,” warns Robbe. “Moreover, it takes more time to switch back and forth between tasks. Therefore, consciously choose to complete one task before moving on to the next. This will not only increase your productivity but also lower your stress levels.”

3. Use your natural peak moments

Everyone has times during the day when energy and concentration are at their best (for example, early in the morning or just after lunch). Schedule your most demanding tasks during these peak hours to work more efficiently and quickly.

4. Apply the ‘2-minute rule’

“Tasks that take less than two minutes – such as quickly replying to an email or giving a brief confirmation – can be handled immediately,” says Robbe. “This prevents small unfinished matters from occupying mental space unnecessarily.”

5. Create recovery rituals

No time for long breaks? Use short reset moments to recharge yourself: set a timer, do some breathing exercices, listen to a song or look out the window. It may seem trivial, but such micro-recovery moments have been proven effective in reducing stress and regaining focus.

“With these strategies, you can gain more control over your workload and reduce stress, allowing you to work more productively and with greater satisfaction,” concludes Robbe.

More information

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