Stress is a part of the job for compliance officers. We are constantly faced with changes in regulations, risks, and business processes, along with the ongoing pressure to be adaptable, yet not make mistakes. However, even when we follow everything correctly, success doesn’t only depend on us – it also depends on how the rest of the organization adopts and follows the rules and standards, often facing resistance from those who see our work as an obstacle or control. All of this further intensifies the pressure.
While a lower level of stress can be motivating, excessive stress negatively affects our work performance. It can lead to anxiety, depression, burnout, isolation, emotional tension, and health issues. The more overwhelmed we are by stress, the harder it becomes to perform our job, our workplace relationships suffer, and consequently, the overall perception of our function and the organization’s compliance diminishes. That’s why being well – emotionally, mentally, and physically – is also part of the compliance professionals job description. Organizational support helps, but self-care is our personal responsibility. We will be well only with self-care, if we take care of ourselves.
Self-Care Begins with Awareness
Self-care starts with looking inward – recognizing ourselves, our feelings, needs, and possibilities. For example, identifying moments when stress overwhelms us, when we need a break, or how much work we can take on. Only from this awareness can any further action arise.
Personal Boundaries as the Core of Self-Care
At the core of self-care is setting and maintaining personal boundaries. These boundaries define what is acceptable to us, even in relation to ourselves. Setting boundaries involves clear communication about what we can accept, how much energy and time we have, and where to draw the line. This helps protect our health, professionalism, and credibility.
Self-Care as a Routine Practice
Self-care is not just a task on the “when I have time” list. On the contrary, it should be integrated into our daily lives and include regular, tailored physical activity, healthy eating, quality sleep, relaxation, hobbies, spiritual practices, personal growth, and the nurturing of quality social relationships.
How much is not too much?
Some forms of self-care can actually do more harm than good if they drain us or create a sense of discomfort. For example, overly intense exercise, overly expensive trips, or excessive screen time can lead to physical, financial, and mental exhaustion instead of relaxation. The key lies in balance—self-care should restore us, not become another source of pressure. The answer to the question, “How much self-care is too much?” is precisely that: it’s just enough when it truly benefits us without adding extra burden.
A Look Back for Today and Tomorrow – with Support
Looking back, it’s valuable to reflect on moments when we may have neglected ourselves and how we can improve that. The first step has already been taken by reading this article. If you feel it’s time for a change, continue with further steps – like setting new priorities or changing your daily routine. And you don’t have to do it alone. Although self-care is a personal responsibility, it will be easier with support – whether it’s from a friend, colleague, or expert. And not just when “the right moment” comes. Self-care is everyday. And when we are well, when we are in compliance with ourselves, we can take better care of our work in compliance as well.
Autor: Tatjana Mršić