Managing Stress
Do you feel stretched like a rubber band? Have you lost the feeling of being in control of your life? Often times it is easy to over-extend yourself, leaving you with a feeling of “where’s my life”? It is time to take control of your life and learn how to manage stress. What steps can you take?
Pinpoint the stress factor
Whether you are a stay at home mom or a busy account executive, stress can creep in and steal your mental health. Learn how to pinpoint the stress factor and learn how to control it. If you feel like you do not have enough time in the day, time management will help in preventing overextending yourself. Start a time entry journal, organize your time so that you can see on paper if you will be able to get everything done and still have time to carve out 30 minutes for yourself.
Focus on what makes you calm and in control
Everyone has an activity that allows them to de-stress, take the time to treat yourself for better mental health. If you are enjoying yourself, you will not think about the “bad areas” in your life and will focus more on the positive areas which will help reduce stress.
Get active
Studies have shown the best way to reduce stress is to get active. Take 30 minutes a day and do some form of exercise. Walking, jogging, stretching, weight lifting, anything to get the body moving will increase endorphins which are a natural stress reliever.
Make time for fun
Give yourself permission to have fun. Everyone needs an outlet to get rid of stress. If you enjoy playing golf, set up a time on your calendar to go to the golf course. If quiet time, reading a book, relaxes you, put your best effort towards making time to curl up with a good book and relax.
Maintain balance
To live a happy productive life, reducing stress is a must. When a person is dealing with stress, not only does the individual suffer, but others around you will suffer as well. Learn what your triggers are and avoid over-extending yourself.
In a fast paced world, it is very easy to become stressed. Reducing one’s mental stress will allow for a happier, healthier, more productive life.