Stress is manageable
I worked as a firefighter for 22 years and had to deal with stress everyday. I discovered what works for me to relieve stress, however what works for one person may not work for everyone. Stress relief is a ongoing process that needs to be worked out and adapted to each stressor as needed.
I agree, Jeffrey. Stress relief for one may be a walk in the park alone at lunch break, while for someone else it may be talking to their co-workers during lunch break. A quick story: last week I was unbelievably stressed between long days at work and illnesses at home (KIDS!). I taught my morning class, and then decided that I really had to find some way to relieve some stress. So, I took myself out to lunch, despite the fact that I have brought my lunch to work nearly every day for the last five years. It was wonderful! I returned to the office with such a sense of calm and renewal. I was so glad I took a little "me" time and actually left the building for a bit instead of eating at my desk. And I'm sure my afternoon class appreciated my calm demeanor too!
I do agree Arvice that stress does hit everyone both at work and home. The difference comes in as to how we handle stress or stressors. We either handle them as you said to the best of our ability, or the stress will handle us emotionally or physically.
Stress hits everyone in a different way. I've learned over the years that stress will come and go when you least expect it. I try my best to manage it to the best of my abilities because stress comes in different shapes and sizes.
No I am not a hero! I enjoy my job and to help others who are unfortunate. I think the real heroes who risk life unselfishly. THank you so much.
Patricia, you are the true heros of today. Read David Grossman's book 'On Combat.'
I see what your saying David! It's like that in my job. Before our bosses or superiors would be their for you to talk with. but how times have changed! No wonder our soldiers and people who work in certain high risk fields are having a tough time mentally and physically cause NO one is their to help them. or the insurance game is on!
I am a medic for the city and yes talking about stress of the job--I feel you as a firefighter and the men and women I work with are courageous and brave. I respect every member of my team. Stress has to be talked out with someone. I tend to talk with my fellow coworker or another medical professional, if talking to someone out of my element-he or she do not understand what I just dealt with in the field.
Jeff, I agree. I was a British SF officer and retired after 30 years in '05. Since then I have worked as a leadership consultant and coach and reckon that I have been more stressed in my second career than I ever was in my first. I think the main reason for this is that as a soldier I was surrounded by like-minded people from whom I learnt; and of course we shared our 'stresses.' In days of old, this was done around a camp fire as soldiers only fought at night. That has changed of course, but the comaradere is still there. Unfortunately, I have found that it does not exist in the world of business....so you need to adapt and as you say, find your own way. For me, it can be a simple as walking the dogs. David
