Stress in itself, is not dangerous. It is how we react to it to that is important. The key to combating stress is recognising what pushes your buttons, what causes you stress. We are all diffrent.
The following strategies will help you to control or manage stress and avoid the, sometimes, debilitating symptoms that come with it.
1. Delegate : Take stock of your life and decide what is important and what you can let go. Write a list of everything that causes you stress and consider whether there is anything you can drop or delegate.
2. Take criticism : There is positive criticism and painful criticsm, identify which it is then deal with it accordingly. Try not to take criticism of your work too personally. Evaluate what has been said and, whether you discard it or take it on board, see it as a postive action. If someone complains you work too slowly, disagrees with a decision you have made or corrects something you have done, it dosen’t make you a lesser person.
3. Get physical : Strenuous exercise, such as a tough aeroboc workout can snap you out of a state of high stress arousal, allowing your stress hormones to settle down to their normal levels.
4. Talk it out : A problem shared really is a problem halved. By sharing what is on your mind with others it relieves the burden you are carrying, plus others can offer their encouragement and support to help you find solutions
5. Define your goals : Your job description may provide a set of goals for you to work to in the form of deadlines and targets. These are very important, as long as they are realistic, as a form of motivation and for your own personal development. If your work does not provide them, discuss it with your manager or draw up your own goals and monitor your progress .
6. Clarify areas of disagreement : It is important not to let conflicts simmer away. Take control and try to identify areas of disagreement.
7. Work and act methodically : A common symptom of stress is a lack of focus and concentration. Getting into the habit of writing a list and prioritising what needs to be done, can help to bring a sense or order to the disorder. Always try to finish one task before moving on to the next and work your way through the list systematically.
8. Good time management : Many people become stressed because they seem to have too much to do and too little time. Making sure you arrive at work in plenty of time, so that you have time to compose yourself for the day ahead and prepare for important tasks will help you to feel in control
9. Call time out : Take regular breaks throughout the day, however busy you are. Every hour give yourself five minutes to sip a glass of water very slowly or take the time to do some gentle stretches or meditate, you will be far more productive afterwards. On a lunch break go and sit somewhere quiet where no one can disturb you, and let the quietness calm you.
10. Stress – proof your diet : Tucking into junk food on the hoof may seem comforting but a poor diet, particulary during times of stress, can lead to blood sugar imbalances that make stressful situations seem even more overwhelming.
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