Stressed Out?
In the good old days when there were jobs aplenty, if your job got too stressful, you quit. I don’t remember people worrying 10 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.
Although I cannot predict the nation’s economic future, I believe it will get better. However, until then, if you are stuck in a job that is stressing you out, I can offer you ways that may help you find a little relief.
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 when we leave our place of business. That means we must be more vigilant in fixing the problem before we let it affect our health and happiness.
If I could fix your job situation, I would. If I could offer you a magical potion so that your stress disappears instantly, I would. What I can offer are real ways to cope with stress so it doesn’t take over your life. Be assured, it won’t work instantly; it requires work and commitment.
I wonder how many readers I just lost.
For those still with me, read on.
If you are interested in some stress relief try to follow these simple steps:
1. Take workout clothes with you to work. Either find a place to walk during a break or during lunch or immediately change into clothes after work so you are ready when you get home —or wherever you work out. If you don’t have a plan to work out or a place to work out—MAKE ONE.
2. Have a friend with the same schedule meet you to work out after you get home. Most of us will neglect ourselves, but won’t let a friend down. SHOW UP!
3. 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!
4. Try to eat healthier. When stress attacks the body, it can have detrimental effects. Again, if your body is armed with good nutrition, it will be able to better fight those effects.
5. Lastly, a reader suggests, “Play the game and have fun with it.” First, listen to those around you, and then let them hear what they want to hear. Make sure your boss gets affirmation daily that you respect him as THE BOSS!
Try to diffuse negative situations by finding the positive in them. I know; this is when the potion would be REALLY HELPFUL.
6. HAVE FAITH—This too shall pass!
For comments, questions or concerns email: suzanne_mcginnis@bellsouth.net.