Here is a simple recipe for stress: Add your normal workload to end of year projects, mix in various holiday responsibilities and shake well. Sound familiar? How do we stress proof ourselves at this time of year? Studies have shown that feeling in control is a major contributor to reducing stress, so here are a few tips to take control and implement positive changes in your life:
— Change your Actions:
Time Management Practices: Are you spending time on the things that are most important in your life and your organization? A good place to start is to create short and long range goals and then prioritize to meet your goals. Learn to say no to things that don’t contribute to your goals or your organization’s objectives. Don’t procrastinate! Plan ahead to avoid stress during “crunch” time.
Utilize Relaxation Techniques: Meditation is not just for Californians anymore! Research has shown that meditation boosts the immune system and reshapes the brain to reduce stress (“Just Say Om”, Time Magazine, 8/4/03 Issue).
— Change your Thinking:
Use a Problem-Solving Approach: When a frustrating situation occurs, focus on problem solving. Assess the situation quickly and ask: “What can I control or change?” And “What can I learn from this situation for the future?” Learn to let things go that are out of your control, focusing on taking action on things you can control and avoid blaming yourself and others.
Create Positive Affirmations: Start your day off right by picturing yourself having a good, success-filled day. Create “I am” messages to reinforce a positive self-image. Example: “I am stress free and productive.”
— Change your Lifestyle:
Exercise and Nutrition: Well, we all know we need to exercise and eat right, but at holiday time it’s hard to give up all the goodies. So have a piece of fruitcake but then schedule in a salad
and exercise. What gets scheduled gets done!
Create Balance In Your Life: As much as feasible, make plans to leave work to enjoy the other areas of your life. Feeling balanced will enable you to give your best at work.
When you’re feeling healthy, energized and productive you know you are managing your stress effectively. Pass along these Stress Proof Tips to your employees and have a safe and happy holiday season!