How To Deal With Stress

A large dose of stress is something we all have to swallow once in a while, but it’s not a case of avoiding the feeling altogether – it’s about how you deal with it that matters. It’s been scientifically proven that stress leads to an endless array of ailments and illnesses, both having a  physical and mental impact on our overall well-being. But don’t despair, I’ve compiled a list of how to deal with stress and get your life back on track again…

1. Make A Little ‘Me’ Time

Working hard, taking care of your man and doing favours for friends may be rewarding, but when overdone you can shoot your stress levels through the roof. You need to make sure you have enough ‘me’ time in your week to balance the day-to-day selfless tasks you willingly carry out. Take a long bubble bath, go shopping in your lunch hour, read that book you got two Christmases ago – anything…just make sure it’s time for you. Daily stressful tasks will always seem more bearable when you know you have a little reward waiting for you at the end of it all.

2. Learn How To Say No

If you’re like me, you’ll do anything for anyone, even if it means sacrificing what you want. Well girls, I’ve got news for you – the only person you have to blame here is yourself. If you’re busy, have too much on or simply want some time alone – just say no. “Can you just pick me up from…” NO! Can you pop in and get a…” NO! “Will you…” I think you get the picture. As much as it may feel weird at first, learning to say no will lift the pressure off your life and the people in your life will appreciate you more, simply because you’re no longer a push over.

3. Manage Your Time

There’s only 24 hours in the day and 8 of them should be spent sleeping – leaving you 16 to do everything else. My Great-Grandfather always says – 8 hours sleep, 8 hours work, 8 hours play, and I think this is an excellent guide for life (in an ideal world of course!) Being stressed is often caused by a lack of organisation on your behalf, so make sure you plan your days and optimise your time management. I find that lists are a fantastic way to organise your day. Every morning take 5 minutes to list everything you need to do and stick to it. You’ll find that with a touch of organisation in your life – you’ll automatically feel prepared and won’t have anymore last minute dramas.

4. Seek Specialist Advice

Don’t suffer in silence. If what you’re stressed about is ongoing and serious – you need to see someone about it. Make an appointment to see your Doctor and he/she will be able to point you in the right direction. You may need medication, counselling or just have things put into perspecive for you. At least after you’ve made the visit you know you’re working towards a solution to the problem, which in itself will give you that peace of mind you deserve.