Vibrant, fast-paced, diverse, inclusive . . . just some of the qualities that make hospitality an incredibly rewarding industry to work in. There are, however, potential drawbacks to such a highly pressurised environment.

According to research, more than 80% of hospitality workers report feeling stressed at work at some point yet more than half prefer not to talk about this with their boss.

For some, the unsociable or long working hours, split shifts and quick pace of work are precisely what’s so attractive about hospitality; for others, however, these factors add personal pressures.

This is why there are initiatives to support workers, keeping the fun factor high but stress levels low and focusing on positive mental health in the workplace.

Among these is the Catering Scotland (CIS) Excellence Awards, which has launched the CIS Well-Being in Hospitality Award. As part of the leading annual competition for hospitality, tourism and catering, the new category has been designed to recognise operators who take positive and proactive measures to address employees’ mental health issues.

There are ways for you, too, to keep the potentially negative effects of stress at bay and be kind to yourself.

Ask for help

Working in hospitality often means experiencing the full force of rapid-fire tasks and strict deadlines. This is why it’s not only imperative to manage your workload so it doesn’t get on top of you but also be willing to talk about pressures.

Never be too timid to approach your line manager and let them know if you’re struggling or need a little extra help.

Remember they, too, have been where you are right now and have the experience and empathy to make a difference.

Take breaks

While it may sound logical, many people working in hospitality don’t allow themselves constructive breaks and this can lead to greater stress further down the line.

A leisurely lunch hour or more is pretty much unheard of but why not consider several shorter, quality breaks instead?

A fresh air stroll, a jog around the park, a quiet cuppa away from your work environment – these are all plug-in points for recharging yourself and powering you beyond the daily stresses of the job.

Be realistic

Don’t bite off more than you can chew. Whether it’s taking on extra shifts, agreeing to an increased workload or upping your responsibilities, listen to your limits and respect them.

To the responsible manager, it’s never ever a sign of weakness, laziness or lack of ambition if you say no when it’s obvious this is a positive step for your physical and mental health. After all, healthy employees make a healthy business.

Enjoy yourself

It’s vital to establish a good routine and work-life balance. Ensure you get enough sleep, engage in some form of physical – and enjoyable – exercise, treat yourself to a nutritious and scrumptious diet and take time to pursue sports, hobbies and interests outside of work.

Above all, enjoy yourself!

Consider a change

Ultimately, if you believe a change of environment and a full recharge is what’s needed, consider a new role in hospitality that’s more suitable.

There are countless opportunities across the sector, so making the change isn’t difficult. It can, however, offer a dramatic upgrading of your long-term happiness and wellbeing.

 

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