Let's admit it, the modern workplace is stressful. We have to deal with an unprecedented amount of emails, phone calls, instant messages, meetings and deadlines. Job security is a thing of the past, positions are eliminated constantly, and we have high productivity goals to reach.

We keep on asking ourselves: Is it possible to be effective AND spiritual at the same time?

Although everyone's workplace is a little bit different, one thing that we all agree is when we're happy, energetic and calm, we are more able to manage stress, ignore distractions and finish our tasks on time. Being more positive and compassionate may be the answer to the ever-more demanding workplace.

Being spiritual is different from being weak or indecisive. It doesn' t mean we have an unhealthy need to please others at the cost of our own success. Having empathy actually helps us to see other people's needs, and in any business negotiation, knowing what the other person wants greatly increases the chances of reaching a win-win deal.

Being spiritual also helps us to respect everyone's needs, including our own. When we look after ourselves, emotions and mind, we acknowledge the need to draw healthier boundaries, to stand up for ourselves and to stop aggression that are uncalled for.

Anger, frustration, stress and headache are all part of working life, they are also part of our human experience. Being spiritual in the workplace is all about mindfulness and empathy. If work is very stressful for you, at least create a safe haven for yourself, do something that make you feel good. For example:

- Makeover your desk, throw away things you no longer need, replace out of date pictures with recent photos of your loved ones
- Print out your favorite quote of wisdom
- Enroll in an online meditation class
- Drink plenty of soothing green tea
- Try a new restaurant every Friday
- Visit a nearby park during lunch break
- Call a friend and have lunch together