Research Administration is stressful. Add in a medical diagnosis that no one wants to hear and the stress can grow exponentially. Kia Reeves knows what that is like and provides some ideas on how we can lower stress in our profession, with or without outside stressors.
We have all seen and witnessed the many changes that have occurred around us during the past few years: job changes and uncertainty, inflation, grief, natural disasters, loss, diseases…the list can go on and on. For the Research Administrator, stress is no different. With the ever-increasing competitive funding environment, it has become more difficult for Principal Investigators to obtain funding, thus increasing the number of submissions.
According to the American Psychological Association, “…data suggests the long-term stress sustained since the Covid-19 pandemic began has had a significant impact on well-being, evidenced by an increase in chronic illnesses—especially among those between the ages of 35 and 44, which increased from 48% reported in 2019 to 58 in 2023.”
In 2021, I was diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer. Thankfully, because of God, I became cancer free in 2022. At that point, I realized life was too short to worry or stress about things beyond my control. After all, my life could have turned out another way. Here are some ways that I learned to manage stress amid a stressful environment.
Getting Up and Moving ~ As a Research Administrator, most of what we do is deadline driven, whether it is a standard deadline or a deadline with a short turnaround time, it still creates stress. Since deadlines do not go away, it is imperative to take time during the day to get up and move. Step away from the computer (job), go for a walk, do some exercises in your home, anything that will take your mind off work for at least 30 minutes. You would be surprised at how much better you feel and how much more productive you are once you get up and move. As a result of exercising, I have been able to lose 30+ pounds and reduce my blood pressure meds. More importantly, I feel better.
Cooking ~ Another way I manage stress is by cooking. I started cooking more and posting pictures on various social media platforms during Covid-19. I challenge myself to make food that not only tastes good but also looks pretty. Some people paint or draw, but my canvas is a pretty plate of food. My newest focus is learning how to make healthier food that tastes just as good. Here’s an example of what I like to cook.
(First picture: egg white omelet sandwich on multi-grain sourdough bread with fresh strawberries and low-cal caramel iced coffee with ground flaxseed; Second picture: salad topped with broiled salmon, tomatoes, turkey bacon, cucumbers, boiled egg, and toasted bread; Third picture: Tex-Mex bowl with grilled chicken, cilantro-lime rice, black beans, corn and peppers, pico de gallo, and green onions.)
Prayer/Meditation ~ Another way I manage stress is by praying and reading various books such as the Bible, books on leadership development, and self-help books. I love learning, so reading books on leadership development and self-help challenges me and helps me to grow. Reading also expands my perspective and gives me the opportunity to use what I have learned to help others.
I hope you can take these suggestions and work towards your journey of living a healthy, stress-free life. Remember, life is too short to worry about things beyond your control.
Authored by Kia Reaves, Administrative Officer for Research
Vanderbilt University Medical Center
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