Handling your stress
Observe your stress. Be mindful. Recognize that you may have to live with it or at least with some of it. Affirm that it is part of your life. Talk to yourself and remind yourself that you don’t need to be afraid. See your stress as an opportunity for growth. Regard it not as an enemy but as something that can help you move forward. When you have achieved this healthier attitude toward your stress, then practice the following, not in an anxious labor to eliminate stress, but in an earnest effort to care for yourself.

Learn how to say no.

If you can, stay away from people who stress you out.

Pay attention to your environment.

  • If traffic stresses you out, take a less traveled route.
  • If TV news makes you tense, get your news from a more low-key public radio or from a newspaper.
  • Stay away from loud public events.

Pare down your to-do list.

Don’t hold your feelings in. Say what is on your mind when you are bothered or upset. Don’t be afraid to communicate your concerns. When locked in a conflict over what to do or how to approach a problem, don’t be afraid to find a compromise. When faced with a problem, try to reframe it instead of being upset or frustrated.

Remember, there are often alternatives that you haven’t noticed.

See the big picture . Ask if it will matter in the long run.

Adjust your perfectionism . Don’t set yourself up for failure. Don’t burden yourself with impossible expectations.

Take a moment to be grateful even if you don’t feel it.

See the positive possibilities , even if they are not obvious. Even if you don’t feel positive, try acting as though you do.
Keep your schedule sensible and balanced. Don’t try to cram everything in.

Recognize what you cannot control.

See challenges as opportunities.

Learn to forgive . Don’t carry resentment.

Get regular exercise .

Connect with others . Spending time with friends and family can relax you, take you away from the things that are stressing you, and remind you of what is important. It will also release oxytocin, which will be good for your heart.

Find time for fun and relaxation. Set aside leisure time, have a hobby, read. Be sure you do something enjoyable every day.

Keep your sense of humor .

Manage your time . Don’t allow yourself to be stretched too thin, even with things you love to do.

If you have a large and daunting project, break it into manageable steps.

If you are in a management position, delegate . Don’t try to do everything yourself.

If you are in a stressful meeting, make an excuse to step out briefly .

Eat a healthy diet, and reduce caffeine and sugar .

Be sure to get enough sleep .

Take a deep breath.