|
Perspective. A large part of managing stress lies in looking at situations literally. Is the situation as important as you think? Realistically visualizing the long-term consequences of the situation can help you put things into perspective. |
 |
|
Learn to say NO! Recognize your own limitations and say no before you become overwhelmed. |
|
|
Manage your time. Make a ‘to-do’ list and check off items as you complete them. Prioritise tasks and then work on the most important ones. Delegate less important tasks and schedule extra time for tasks, in case of interruptions. |
|
|
Healthy lifestyle. Make every effort to eat healthy food. Studies indicate that the body’s ability to store key nutrients drops by up to a third when it’s under stress. Get plenty of sleep and rest. Being tired simply adds to your stress level. |
|
|
Exercise regularly. Exercise provides the body with an opportunity to burn off accumulated stress hormones. It is also one of the most powerful relaxation tools. You do not have to be a gym freak to gain the benefits, even 20 minutes of walking three times a week will help to reduce stress as well as promoting restful sleep. |
|
|
Learn how to relax. Practice deep-breathing techniques such as slowly inhaling while counting to five; hold your breath for five seconds then breathe out slowly. Repeat this 10 times when feeling stressed, concentrating on nothing but your breathing. Take time out. For five minutes every hour try to ‘shut down’ and think of nothing but your perfect situation. This could be a dream holiday or simply about thinking about doing nothing at all. You will be surprised at how effectively this can lower stress levels. |
|
|
Plan breaks in your day. The aim here is to allow time for the unexpected (which, as we all know, will happen!). Get up 15 minutes earlier than you think you need to and prepare for the day without rushing. Even better, get things ready the night before. Try to have 20 minutes in the morning and afternoon that is exclusively ‘your’ time, in which you can do whatever you want, even if it is simply doing nothing. Look forward to these times when things get busy and if you are unable to use them always remember to ‘catch up’ later on. |
|
|
De-clutter. Mess creates confusion and a sense of loss of power. If your desk/home/car is messy and disorganised, have a good clear out and tidy up. You’ll instantly feel more in control. |
|
|
Change the habit. Many stresses are habitual. If you start to feel anxious or stressed out, do something out of character. Stop what you’re doing and do something else. Or take a minute to take stock and work out why you’re feeling uptight. |
|
|
Think positive. Repeating positive sentences about yourself can work wonders. |
