Even if you love your job, sales can still be a stressful career. You have to be “on” and at the top of your game all day. You have to deal with cold-calling people who may not be thrilled to talk to you. You have to learn how to accept the word “no” and move on, and it seems like there’s never quite enough time to celebrate your successes.
By the time you’ve finished a hard sales day, you probably want nothing more than to sprawl out on the couch with a bottle of beer and your favorite type of movie marathon. Tempting as that option sounds, though, it’s not a good choice for de-stressing.
It’s a way to numb your feelings when what you really need is a way to nurture them, accept them, and move on. When you’re ready to de-stress, try one of these ideas instead.
1. Exercise
30 minutes of vigorous exercise three times each week will ease your tension, lower your blood pressure and heart rate, and elevate your move. If you exercise outdoors, your body will also absorb some much-needed vitamin D. Exercise options include going for a brisk walk, swimming, participating in an aerobics or martial arts class, and spending time on a treadmill or stationary bicycle.
2. Make Time for Hobbies
Pick a couple of activities you really enjoy doing like needlework, reading, computer gaming, playing darts, or coaching Little League, and make time for them at least twice a week. Doing something you want to do is a great way to let go of stress.
3. Listen to Sales Motivation CDs
If you’ve had a brutal day, one of those days when “yes” didn’t seem to be a word in any prospect’s vocabulary, it may help you to hear a few words of encouragement and advice from the masters in your field. If you like, you can combine listening to the motivational CDs with walking or taking a leisurely drive.
4. Unplug from Work
Carve out some time that is completely free of any job-related activities. Turn off your work phone and resist with all your might the temptation to check email. No matter how important your job is to you, it is not the entirety of your life. Remembering that will help reduce your stress.
5. Spend Time with Family and Friends
Avoid talking about work as much as possible when you are with family and friends. When you choose the people you want to be your friends, bring people into your life who make you feel uplifted instead of drained. You are subjected to enough crises at work. You don’t need continuous drama in your personal life as well.
When you finish a hard day of work, take some time to focus on your needs and de-stress in a healthy, life-affirming way. Taking good care of yourself can help you avoid burnout and enjoy your sales position for many years to come.
