I think that we go a long way in minimizing stressors simply by identifying them and knowing that they are present in our lives. We have to recognize that we can not change others we can only change ourselves.
This puts the responsibility for how we respond to stressors squarely into our lives.
By eliminating eliminating, and reducings the ones we do have control over it makes it easier to deal with people we don't have control over.
Michael Wynne
Sounds like you have done a fantastic job of assessing your needs Jenny. Sometimes that's the hardest part so great work making progress there. Next step is to take action. Good to know you've increased your physical activity lately. That's a great start!
I have increased my physical activity of late, so I need to keep that up. I need to try and find a balance between work and family obligations that doesn't make my children unhappy, which causes them to act out. And I need to learn that if the house does not look perfect it is not a reflection of failure!
I will BREATHE! When I get stressed, I often forget to breathe deeply, and have to remind myself to take slow, deep breaths. It helps a great deal. Stretching also helps, as well as talking over my day with my spouse.
Sounds like a wise approach Monica. We have to set our expectations that some things are going to go wrong each day. How we handle those challenges is really what defines us. Sounds like you are handling them well.
Excellent approach Denise! Walks work so well for so many people. Some doctors believe that walking is also one of the best ways to boost your metabolism. So there are really a lot of benefits.
Sounds like a great plan Billie. Breathing, stretching and exercise are all great ways to reduce stress daily. What I love about breathing is that you can do it anywhere.
I plan to use breathing, stretching and exercise to help me cope with my daily stresses.
I am right there with you I heart yoga!
Personally I believe that I have few stressor in my live, which I feel blessed about that.. but things like, alarm did not go off, traffic jam, technology breakdowns...things that I cannot control.. I just try to be calm and relax.. and think in a second plan or solution.
Having different coping strategies is an awesome idea. I have found that taking walks have worked for me and continually to do so.
So true Marianne. I recommend starting small. Even just a 10 minute walk can make a big difference on the way we feel. Sometimes it's easier to ease into a new routine.
I really, really need to get out and do more physical activities. At this stage in my life, I need to take time and smell the roses. I love my work, but I need to make a committment and take the time to step back and relax and go back to work refreshed. Just walking around for 20 minutes gives you a clear head about what may be on your plate at that time.
Wow, sounds like you have found many great coping techniques Luke! Thanks for sharing. While your coworkers may not appreciate your giving up coffee, they probably enjoy the benefits of having a reduced-stress coworker.
I have started exercising more, and to the annoyance of my coworkers, eliminated coffee from my daily routine (sorry!). I also recently emrolled in a kickboxing class. It is so amazing to realize stressors that used to aggravate me now seem to have the volume turned down. That, and beating a sand filled bag until I can't hold my arms up really makes a person revamp the way they see life!
Yes, sounds like a great plan Patricio. I particularly like the part about asking questions. This is an essential. We've got to take a step back and carefully assess each stressor.
what I would do in the future to cope with this stressors.
create a list with my stressors, then eliminated them today so tomorrow will not fustrate me. Also I should consider asking my self some question for each of them.
I will begin to walk. I know that I internalize a lot of stress so in order to stay healthy I would began walking as it is something I can do while overseeing the student lunches.
Excellent to hear Christopher. It's amazing how much MORE energy we have after we expend some through exercise.
My favorite thing is to ride my bicycle. the physical activity really helps releve the stress of the week and makes me more energized.
