1. Learn to manage your time more effectively
We waste a lot of time doing unimportant tasks, especially when stressed, so prioritise your day and do the important jobs first. The unimportant ones can wait, and often they will disappear completely leaving you time to do other things. Also, do not put off the unpleasant tasks – avoidance causes a great deal of stress.
2. Adopt a healthy lifestyle
If we eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly and ensure we get adequate sleep and rest our body is better able to cope with stress should it occur. If this is not the case, then this may be a warning sign so don’t ignore it. Engaging in some form of physical activity may help you by working off the biochemical and physical changes that occur within your body due to stress.
3. Know your limitations and do not take on too much
We can cause ourselves a great deal of stress because we do not want to let people down. We then end up doing more than we should. Learn to delegate effectively and be assertive so that you can say ‘No’ without upsetting or offending.
4. Find out what causes you stress
Take time to discover what is worrying you and try to change your thoughts and behaviour to reduce it.
5. Avoid unnecessary conflict
Do not be too argumentative. Is it worth all the stress? Look for win – win situations. Find a resolution to a dispute where both parties can achieve a positive outcome. Find out what the real cause of the problem is and perhaps try to compromise.
6. Accept the things you cannot change
Changing a difficult situation is not always possible. If this proves to be the case, recognise and accept things as they are. Try to concentrate on the things you do have control over. Managing change effectively is essential to reduce stress.
7. Take time out to relax and recharge your batteries
You will perform more effectively during work or completing general tasks – if you regularly take a short 10/15-minute break.
8. Find time to meet friends
Friends can ease work troubles and help us see things in a different way. The activities we engage in with friends help us relax and we will often have a good laugh. It boosts the immune system that is often depleted during stress.
9. Try to see things differently, develop a positive thinking style
If something is concerning you, try to see it differently. Talk over your problem with somebody before it gets out of proportion. Often, talking to a friend or colleague will help see things from a different and less stressful perspective.
10. Avoid alcohol, nicotine and caffeine as coping mechanisms
Long term, these coping mechanisms will just add to the problem. Caffeine, nicotine and sugar are stimulants – too much and the body reacts to this with the stress response – causing or increasing symptoms. Remember too, alcohol is a depressant!
Relaxation also helps your body return to its normal healthy state. A good relaxation therapy is Hypnotherapy so do get in touch to alleviate any worries, stress or anxiety.