Worko investigates: Design Engineers' stress levels after vacation
Did they manage to leave work at work and come back refreshed?
In June, we asked design engineers how their stress levels were before the summer vacation. The result showed an average of 7.8 out of 10 when it came to meeting deadlines, and overall stress levels were at 6.4. This is understandable as many projects need to be completed before vacations, which usually adds some extra pressure.
But how does it look now, at the end of August, when most have returned to work and resumed their projects? At Worko, we track seasonal stress and understand the importance of feeling good at work. That’s why we asked the design engineers in our network how their stress levels compare now to before the summer, and here are the results.
We've asked design engineers again: how stressed are you right now, after your vacation?
The survey shows that summer leisure time had a moderate impact on design engineers’ stress levels, which have come down somewhat, with the average now at 5.9 out of 10, compared to the pre-summer level of 6.4.
The average has dropped by just under 0.5 points since before the holiday, a number suggesting that stress quickly returns once they’re back at work. It also turns out that the perceived stress level before and after the vacation is nearly the same: 38% say they are more stressed before their break than after it, 31% report the opposite, and the remaining 31% find it hard to compare.
What we can take from this survey is that there is a baseline level of stress that design engineers manage on a daily basis. What factors affect their stress, and how can they reduce it? Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common causes of stress after a vacation and how to manage them.
Seasonal stress
Coming back to work after a long and relaxing vacation can feel overwhelming. In addition to the ”usual” stress of being a design engineer – time pressure, cost constraints, technical issues, communication with various stakeholders – some seasonal factors are now added, which can increase the feeling of being behind.
In the fall, it’s common that:
… you feel down about the summer vacation being over, as life returns to old daily routines and responsibilities
… new colleagues start, and you become involved in the onboarding process, taking valuable time away from your own tasks
… the fall projects and associated demands put pressure on you right away
Finally back?
But there are also many positive aspects to returning to work after the vacation season, and not everyone feels weighed down by fall. Often times, a fun conference awaits, and it’s exciting to reconnect with colleagues. For some, this return also brings a sense of renewal. Maybe you’ve had new ideas during your vacation or feel extra motivated to perform in new projects. This enthusiasm can be a strong indicator that you enjoy your work.
The feeling of finally returning to an environment where you can grow and develop can provide a wonderful sense of purpose: but do you know what really makes you thrive? Do you share the same preferences as other design engineers?
Design engineers’ top 3: when they feel good at work
Over the years, we have had dialogues with many design engineers to find out what they need to feel good at work. Most agree that autonomy, flexible working hours, and a fun workplace are the top 3 factors for thriving in their work environment.
When it comes to their own development, they often want to specialize in their technical field, while also seeking skills to be able to work cross-functionally.
Sharing knowledge with colleagues is also highly valued, and in the long run, they want to achieve a higher salary.
Do you agree? Do you feel differently? Let us know what’s important to you!
Your stress levels may be under control – will they be in the future?
Do you know what you need and want at work to feel your best? Those who know themselves and are prepared for unexpected changes have the best chance to improve their professional lives in the future.
No matter what your situation is, we encourage you to be proactive in your career and use your time to your advantage: look around in your industry and find inspiration for the next step forward to foster your own development and competitiveness.
Want more career tips, inspiration & insights in your industry? Find more on our blog!
