Taking into account the fact that we spend so much of our lives working, one should not downplay the importance of working in a stress-free environment. Although it might seem as a utopian concept to many, a sound working environment can be achieved in simple ways.

• Identify the reasons for your being in a particular job. Are you only in it for the money? Financial rewards might be satisfying at first but that will not be enough to maintain one's enthusiasm. One will always feel underpaid if money is the only reason for being in a job. A disgruntled employee cannot focus on his or her tasks properly. On the other hand, the energy of someone who loves what he or she does has no match. An upbeat employee is a productive employee.

• Communicating with your colleagues frequently. Miscommunication is often the source of most conflicts. When people keep their feelings or views in all the time they are bound to reach a point of no return (e.g.nervous breakdown, aggressive behaviour). Studies have shown that the daily accumulation of 'little' stressors is far more damaging to an individual than a stressful event that occurs once in a blue moon. Communication between colleagues allows people to become aware of their behaviour and makes room for adaptability.

• Team-building activities. Organizing team-building activities allows workers to see a different side of each other, especially if the activity takes place away from the workplace. This contributes to creating a more relaxed atmosphere at work.

    People often view professional achievement as a destination and neglect the fact that our working lives are a journey. Paying more attention to the means will inevitably solidify the end.