Defining Stress

Many of us deal with stress on a daily bases. How we choose to handle it has a major impact on our lives. It plays a roll in our successes as well as our failures. With a better understanding of what it really means, we can make better choices on how to lower its impact, or utilize it to propel us above and beyond perceived limits.

In small doses, stress can help us stay focused. It increases our energy level. The surge of adrenaline feels good. We're pumped, ready to take on the world.

As the pressure increases, the stress reaches the point where we can no longer cope with it in a positive way. We feel stressed out, no longer capable of handling it.

If the pressure doesn't ease, the situation will spiral out of control. We feel like the world is crashing down on us. The results can be devastating.

There are many things that can lead to stress. Some are temporary such as pain caused by an accident. It can be extremely stressful but if the end is in sight, it's easier to bear. Others, such as worry over providing for our families. may be a low-grade worry, but one that can haunt us for years.

Pain
Death of a loved one
Conflicts
Divorce
Unemployment
Depression
Heavy drinking

Stressors are not always negative. Things we look forward to, or want to do can also add to our stress level as well.



Marriage
Changing jobs or promotions
Planning a vacation
Preparing for an addition to the family

Stress can come from any and all directions. The key is to know your limits and take steps to alleviate it before it spirals out of control.

There are many things that can be done to lower our stress levels. Like the triggers of stress, it's an individual thing. What works for one may not work for another. Here are a few of my favorites. Some of them might work for you as well.

1. Get plenty of rest. Stress is harder to handle when we're tired.

2. Listen to soothing music.

3. Soak in the bathtub.

4. Read a good book.

5. Meditate

6. Sweat it out in the gym.

7. Organize your time. If I take a few minutes to plan my day, I can usually keep the monster from nipping at my heels.

8. If traffic is an issue, leave a few minutes earlier than planned. I HATE to be late. Its one of my triggers.

9. Delegate. Superman and Wonder Woman are not roll models to emulate. Ask for help when you need it.

10. Learn how to say NO. I know my limits and when I'm close to reaching them, I have no qualms about saying no. If it bothers you, think about how much would get done if you crash and burn.

There are several other possibilities and options. The key is to figure out what works best for you.