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STRESS MANAGEMENT TIPS
All stress isn't bad. Stress can initiate change, help us focus on the task at hand, and in some cases even save our lives. Yet, when stress builds up, it can result in the opposite and cause us to spin our wheels, keep us from concentrating, and cause a whole bunch of health problems.
The first tip in managing stress is to recognize what feeds your stress. The following stress management tips, based on some old and some new adages, can help you do just that!
Take a Deep Breath and Count to Ten- Taking a deep breath or two adds oxygen to your system, which almost instantly helps you relax. In addition, taking a moment to step back can help you maintain your composure, which in the long run, is what you need to work rationally through a stressful situation.
Start with "take a deep breath" and Count to ten (more or less as the situation warrants!) Stand up and stretch. Remember relaxation is the opposite of stress. Stand up and smile. Try it! You'll feel better! Take a short walk. If you're at work, take a bathroom break or get a glass of water. Do something that changes your focus. When you come back to the problem, chances are it won't seem nearly as insurmountable. Stop and Smell the Roses
"Things Happen" and sometimes "bad things happen to good people". If we let them, stressful events can build up and eventually stop us from enjoying the good things in life.
Take the time. Too often we put the pleasantries of life on the back burner, telling ourselves we don't "have time" or can't "make time" for them. However, time is the only thing we do completely own. While we can't "make" a day that's longer than 24 hours, each of us starts the day with exactly that amount of time. Take a part of your time to recognize the good things in your life.
Sleep on it. Every issue has both pros and cons. List them both then put the list away and take a second look tomorrow. Sometimes "sleeping on" a situation changes the minuses to pluses.
Knowing yourself and your limits may be the most important way to manage your stress effectively.
Dare to say no. One more little thing may be the "straw that breaks the camel's back". It's okay to say "No", "I can't", or "Later".
Quit blaming yourself.
When you need help, get help. Even Atlas couldn't bear the weight of the world on his shoulders forever. Whether you need help from kids or spouse bringing in the groceries, help from a colleague to solve a work-related problem, or professional help to find the causes of and effectively manage your stress, getting the help you need is in itself a major stress management tip!
Other Tips.... Get a good night's rest Smile...it will all work out!
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