Stress Management Strategies

Between family, home and work, our lives are hectic, complicated and demanding. Stress seems to be a constant companion. We may not be able to avoid stress, but we can learn to manage it more effectively. The first step to decreasing stress is to realize that you are in control of your life. You have the power to decrease your stress levels.

In our last post we suggested keeping a journal to help pinpoint the particular stressors that plague your life and determine how you respond to those stressors. To eliminate stress, you can either change the situation or change your reaction to it using four basic management strategies: avoid, alter, adapt or accept. Below you’ll find examples describing how these stress-relieving strategies can be applied to better reduce the stress in your life.

• Avoid activities that cause you stress. Learn to say “no” in your personal and professional life. Know what your limits are and refuse to accept additional responsibilities that may push you over those limits. Life is short and full of choices. Make a conscious decision to spend your time on things that are important to you and that make you happy.

• Avoid people that add stress to your life. If you can’t change the relationship dynamics, spend less time with the person or end the relationship.

• Avoid stressful situations. If the news makes you anxious, turn off the TV. If traffic is your hot button, change your travel route. If discussing religion sends your blood pressure soaring, leave the conversation.

• Avoid over-scheduling. Prioritize your “to do” list into things that must be done today, things that should be done but can pushed into the future, and things that are not essential. Move less important items to the bottom of the list or eliminate them.

• Life changes and your priorities should change with it. Periodically assess your activities and purge things you do only out of obligation or habit. Concentrate on activities that keep you and your family happy and safe. Eliminate things that are no longer important or that no longer fit your lifestyle.

• Alter situations you can’t avoid. If something or someone upsets you, don’t hide your feelings and let resentment build; express your feelings politely and respectfully.

More Stress Management Tips on Friday.