One simple way to manage stress

It just occured to me, after a fabulous long weekend here in Brisbane, that managing stress need not be as difficult as many people make it.

I personally think it (stress management) starts and ends with the individual.  You need to take responsibility for recognising that you are subject to stress and that it is your responsibility to effectively manage it.  No-one else will (or can) do it for you.  Not your husband, wife, parents, employer, colleagues or friends.  So, with that grim assessment that its all up to you I thought I'd share some information about stress that might help.

• Stress is cumulative.  What didn't bother you yesterday could tip you over the edge today.
• Your body responds to any change as stressful (even positive events).
• Much of our personal stress comes from our expectations about how things SHOULD be, happen or go.  Practice letting go of some of your expectations to watch stress melt away.
• Individuals have different responses and tolerances to stress.  What stresses you out may not bother someone with a more resiliant personality.
• Your individual tolerance to stress changes from day to day - your health, the environment, how much sleep you've had, alcohol consumption, exercise, workload, deadlines.  All combine with your unique make up to influence how much stress you can manage and what your response will be.
• Some stress is good.  As humans we need a certain amount of stress (input) in order to perform at our best.  Procrastinators take heed - you need more stress than many to get moving.

I'm happy to talk more about stress management.  If you have any questions or comments let me know.  But for now, here's my one tip for more effectively manage the stress in your life.

Take a break.  Experts recommend at least one long weekend away every three months.  Can't see it happening?  Stay tuned, in my next blog I'll talk about how to make plans to ensure you get the break you need.

Take care, be well.