Stress is a part of our lives, and some of us are far more prone to it than others. In its proper place, it can serve as a motivator to get things done that need doing. At its worst, it can be a demoralizing, debilitating problem that can leave you unable to function effectively when it comes to taking care of your responsibilities.
Overcoming stress and adopting good stress management habits can be among the toughest, yet most rewarding efforts you will ever undertake. But first, you have to figure out and identify those things that trigger the stress points in your life.
Unfortunately, stress points in life are not always readily identifiable. Sometimes there are genuine external forces acting upon us to produce stressful life moments, and other times it may just be due to unhealthy behaviors and attitudes that we have adopted over time. If you really want to identify your sources of stress, ask yourself, do I consider stress as temporary, even though I don't remember the last time I wasn't stressed? Do you consider stress to be a normal part of your everyday life or a natural part of your personality? You have to step up and take some control for the stress factors in your life.
There are right ways and wrong ways of coping with stress. The wrong ways should be obvious, but sadly they are also the most popular. Some of the more ill-advised methods for handling stress include smoking, drinking, binging, vegging out in front of the TV or computer, oversleeping, and procrastination.
The one constant in positive stress management is "change". You have to make some changes in your life, your surroundings, your circumstances, or maybe all three, if you want to successfully alleviate your stress. A good formula to remember for dealing with stress is that of the Four A's:
Avoid the stressful situation. Learn the power of the word "no" and don't put yourself in stressful situations. Stay away from people who bring stress into your life. Pare down your schedule to a more manageable level
Alter the stressful situation. Express your feelings instead of keeping them pent up. Become more assertive and meet problems head on. Learn how to manage your time better to make the most of a given situation or opportunity.
Adapt to the stressful situation. Look at a problem or issue from a different angle, and try to put a positive spin on it as opposed to assuming it is going to wreck your life. Ask yourself if this will really be an issue six months down the road. Adjust your standards and expectations.this is especially useful if you are a perfectionist (since you plan on being disappointed a lot).
Accept the stressful situation. Some things you just can't change. Learning to live with stressful situations can really help make it easier to deal with nagging issues. View it as a good chance to grow and mature. If it is an issue with another person, learn to let some things go. Forgive, drop it, and move on.
You should also make it a priority to have some fun and relaxation in your life. Don't buy into the mantra that every waking hour of every waking day has to be filled with something productive. Sometimes the most productive thing you can do is take time for yourself.
You can go for a good, brisk, walk, spend time with a friend, enjoy a healthy rigorous workout, take up gardening or some other hobby, read a book or listen to music, or find your favorite comedy movie or TV show to enjoy. Sometimes it pays to simply jettison life's worries and take the time to just "be". You'll be amazed at how quickly you are able to recharge your batteries.
You should also spend time with people who contribute positively to your life. Don't get hung up on people that bring you down, find the positive influences and make the most of them.
Above all, keep a good sense of humor. The simple act of laughter allows your body to fight off stress and other unhealthy attributes much more effectively.
Now go therefore and enjoy your life..you deserve it!
