Stressercise
In the good old days when there were jobs aplenty, if yours got too stressful, you could quit. I don’t remember people worrying 15 years ago that there may not be other job opportunities. Even entrepreneurs could take the leap of faith and start a new business without it feeling like financial suicide.
Stress is a word that may be overused in our society—however; it can have real physical, mental and emotional consequences. Often times the stress doesn’t go away even when we leave work or school.
That means we must be more vigilant in fixing the problem at an internal level before we let it affect our health and happiness.
If you are stuck in a job or are facing other challenges that have you stressed out, here are a few ways that may help you cope so that it doesn’t take over your life.
Have you ever felt like you’ve been run over by a truck but you are sure the soreness isn’t from working out because you haven’t exercised in weeks? THAT IS STRESS!
Exercising will release poisonous toxins from the body that will relax the body and rejuvenate your mind. Plan to take workout clothes with you to work.
Find a place to walk during a break or lunch. If this isn’t an option then immediately change into clothes after work so you are ready when you get home—or when you arrive at the park or gym. If you don’t have a plan or a place to exercise—make one.
Find time to be quiet. If you just took five minutes before work to do some deep breathing, journaling or praying—you will be armed for the day. When you are centered mentally and spiritually, stress will have a much harder time “breaking the barrier” of calm! Also, quiet and purposeful breathing before bedtime will make for a better night’s sleep which can also help you cope with stress.
Lastly, if work—or your boss—is the culprit, try to play the game and have fun with it. Listen to your supervisors and colleagues, and then let them hear what they want to hear. Make sure your boss gets affirmation daily that you respect him.
You can’t control him or her, but you can certainly change your response to them. Try to diffuse negative situations by finding the positive in them and have faith. This too shall pass!
For comments, questions or concerns email: suzannemcginnis@me.com