My CRE job is rewarding but demanding, considering all the high stakes transactions, complex situations & the pressure to meet sales targets & client expectations. And interacting directly with customers sometimes makes it tough to manage & keep all the emotions in check, making it easy for depression & anxiety to set in. I’ve been fortunate to avoid this but I know professionals who are barely coping with mood swings, feeling helpless & changes in sleep, energy, concentration & appetite.
Today, talking about mental health is encouraged, but finding the time to do it is tough, especially when there are deals pending, properties closing & clients stressing. We all know that feeling of defeat after a transaction falls through or fear when the business hits a lull.
According to the Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC), companies say depression & anxiety are the top two issues impacting job performance in the workplace. One in five Canadians experience a mental health problem or illness each year. That’s 500K employees unable to work every week because of it. Here’s what helps me manage stress:
• Sports, exercise & hobbies
• Good food & no stimulants
• Balancing work & play
• Lots of sleep & rest
• Supportive people
• Bonding with family & pets
