We all know the feeling of being stressed out; whether it was during a time when you had too much on your plate or maybe you were put into an uncomfortable position. The sense of anxiety that comes with stress is so overwhelming that some people struggle to find healthy ways to deal with it.
How big is the problem of poorly managed or handled stress? Experts estimate that stress costs the North American economy more than $200 billion each year. Medical experts guess that 80% of all health problems are at least in part due to stress. While the effects of stress on our society are great, poorly managed stress takes a toll on people as well.
1. Affirmative or Positive Thinking
It is well known that destructive or harmful beliefs and negative self-talk help create stress. These stress creating ways of thinking are not good habits. But the good news is, because they are habits they can be changed. When you change your habits you will have less stress.
2. Taking Charge
Many of the unwanted stress reactions we have come from our belief that we must control events or the events will control us. The truth is that there are some things we can control and others we cannot. A great deal of stress in our lives can be pushed aside if we learn to control the things that we can and let go of the things we cannot control.
3. Relaxing
Relaxation or resting is an important part of stress management. It’s a good way to stop the cycle of stress build-up in your school, work, and personal life. The stress-reducing effect of relaxation improves the way we look at things and makes it easier to practice affirmative thoughts and positive self-talk.
4. Taking Care of Your Body
The link between mind and body cannot be ignored in a stress-reduction program. Each of us, no matter our age or level of fitness, can benefit from a regular fitness program. Before doing so, of course, you should see a doctor to decide what level and type of activities you can do safely.
Everyone handles stress differently. Going for a strenuous run might help to relieve your stress at the end of a long day, while someone else might manage their stress level by unwinding with a good book. What works for one person might not work to manage stress for someone else. Try a few of these stress management techniques and find one or two that work for you.
Want to learn more about how to successfully manage stress? Check out our Success Profiler program.
