New Study Says Being Micromanaged May Shorten Your Lifespan

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We can all agree that micromanaging is annoying, but now a recent study says that it may even take years off an employee’s life!

Yes, as a recent Mental Floss article reports, there is a link between workplace autonomy and expected lifespan. As author Kate Horowitz explains, a recent study from the University of Indiana has found that there is a link between feelings of powerlessness while on the job and an employee’s lifespan.

The researchers discovered that employees who felt as though they had little say in their jobs (whether it was their scheduling, personal issues with the boss or one’s coworkers, or the overall work assigned) were more likely to suffer an early death.

What can account for this? Well, we all know by now that stress is a killer. It is hard on the heart, and it can even make you more likely to contract everything from the common cold to cancer.

Additionally, many people with stressful jobs also turn to unhealthy behaviors to cope. Perhaps they smoke, overeat, drink too much or zone out in front of the television instead of exercising. All of this can add up to disease and a shorter life-span.

So how should you cope with workplace stress?

1. Try to get away from your desk whenever possible, even if it is just for short breaks. Take a walk outside the building, or eat lunch at a nearby cafe with a good book.

2. Use your vacation days! Over half of people do not take all of their paid time off, and this is just a shame. Not only does it mean that you can’t enjoy time with your family and friends, it also means that your body never gets to rest and recharge. The trend of companies paying their employees to take vacations hopefully means more of us will take advantage of this benefit.

3. Always be on the lookout for better employment. They say that the best time to look for a job is when you already have a job. So, if your workplace is really detrimental to your health, then you should make sure that your resume is always ready to go. Keep in touch with head hunters or make sure to keep your LinkedIn profile active.

And, remember, to take time to unwind each day! You deserve it.

[h/t Mental Floss]

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About the Author
Bridget Sharkey
Bridget Sharkey is a freelance writer covering pop culture, beauty, food, health and nature.

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