Managing Stress
Don't let your stress manage you! Instead, begin today to manage your stress by finding the way -- or ways -- that work best for you.
Take time to:
Stressors
The first step to managing your stress is identifying what causes it. Once you have done this, you may be able to reduce or stop whatever is causing you stress. If you have trouble identifying your stressors, ask for help. Sometimes it is difficult to see or admit what the root of our stress is.
Organizational Skills
Developing organization skills and setting reasonable goals can greatly reduce your stress. With so many demands on one's time, it is almost impossible to meet all of them. Therefore, address the most important activities early in the day or during your peak energy periods. Always focus on the task at hand.
A Positive Outlook
Your mental outlook can help you deal with stress. When you think positively, you give yourself permission to succeed. Try to replace negative thoughts with positive statements such as "I deserve to take care of myself."
People with "Type A" personalities often have difficulty maintaining a positive outlook. "Type As" tend to be competitive and may feel there is never enough time. When they get angry, it increases their blood pressure and the risk of heart disease.
Learning to compromise and see things from a different point of view can be helpful. "Type A" people can use their work skills to improve their health. For example, their organization skills can help them keep track of their diet, exercise and relaxation techniques. They can also use their time management skills to schedule time for leisure activities.
Leisure Activities
Leisure activities help decrease stress and improve quality of life. If you have forgotten how to enjoy yourself, now is the time to remember. List all the things that you enjoy or enjoyed in the past, and things that you have always wanted to do.
Next, plan how you can do these activities. Seek out local groups, recreation centers or community colleges that offer these activities. Some interests such as gardening and crafts can be done at home. Then, schedule time for these activities just as you would anything else that is important to you.
Relationships
The healing power of a loving relationship has been proven in several studies. Allow yourself to be nurtured by the graces of your family and friends. Let go of old hurts and forgive those who may have hurt you. Through doing this, you'll find a sense of peace.
Your Spiritual Life
Life-giving resources are available through your spiritual life. Your spiritual life can be found in the values that give you meaning and in your everyday relationships at home and work. Most importantly, your spiritual life is found in your relationship with God, however you may define him/her. Take time for prayer and quiet reflection. Remember, prayer may sometimes bring a miracle, but more often it brings comfort, hope and strength.
