A webinar on Stress Management for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), hosted by Negosyo Center Binangonan was conducted last 20 April 2021 via Zoom and Facebook Live. The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) – Rizal Division Chief Sharon Fojas-Dioco stressed that this webinar, being part of “the new normal”, is the manifestation of DTI’s commitment to serving MSMEs. She emphasized the importance of staying healthy and practicing health protocols because after all, we are still in the midst of a world crisis.
Business Counselor Jerome Montealegre of Negosyo Center Binangonan facilitated the webinar. He stated that being an entrepreneur is one of the most stressful jobs. Entrepreneurs must grapple with uncertainty and being personally responsible and liable for any decisions they make. Entrepreneurs must also rapidly develop their expertise across all areas of management from finance, marketing, procurement, and operations to human resource management in the process of starting and managing their business. He also explained that everyone, including MSMEs, needs to pause and learn how to manage the stress since it seems it is something inevitable.
Ms. Kristine Rose Cruz, a Registered Guidance Counselor, and Licensed Professional Teacher led the discussion. Her presentation circled on defining stress and its components; causes of stress; its effects on a person physically, and other dimensions. She shared helpful and timely tips and techniques on managing stress. She mentioned that stress is something that we cannot get away with so managing the effects would be crucial. She recommended that, to manage the stress, use the S.T.R.E.S.S. strategies, short for Systematize, Time Management, Release appropriate emotions, Energize, Support system, and Spirituality. Simple breathing techniques and an unconventional form of exercise were also shared by the speaker. Questions from the viewers were addressed after the presentation.
Ms. Marlene De Luna, Senior Trade and Industry Specialist closed the activity with her appreciation for Ms. Cruz and the viewers. She encouraged the viewers to take part in the upcoming activities of DTI particularly for the MSMEs and the general public as well.♦
Date of Release: 5 May 2021