I’m So Stressed Out!!
How many times have you found yourself saying those words?! Try as we might, stress seems to be that one issue that most of us have a difficult time trying to manage. We’ve tried organizing, scheduling, praying, mindfulness, and other ideas but results don’t seem to last very long. If you’re “sick and tired” of being “sick and tired”, it’s time to make some true changes. Here are a few ideas to help you make some serious changes in your stress levels.
1. Make A Declaration: Don’t just SAY you need to lower your stress. Tell yourself “I AM NOT GOING TO PUT UP WITH THIS ANY LONGER”. Demanding a change in your life will help give you confidence and motivation to do things differently.
2. Plan Your Day: Allow yourself 5 – 10 minutes each morning to list the things you HAVE to get done, the things you WANT to get done if possible, and the things you PREFER to be done as soon as possible. Categorizing your thoughts help keep us focused and productive.
3. Schedule Your Projects: Try scheduling each project with a set time to help keep yourself on task. If you have a meeting between 9a and 10a, give yourself a little time to get a cup of coffee, have a quick conversation with a co-worker, take a walk around the building to get the blood pumping, etc. and then work on your reports from 10:15a – 11:00a. Knowing there is a time to “reset” and start the next task is a tremendous help! Bonus: always give yourself those few minutes between tasks as a moment to gather your thoughts and take a deep breath. It may seem counterproductive, but you will soon find it keeps your mind clear and your energy up.
4. Have a Stop Time: Believe me, there will always be things to do! However, don’t forget to “keep the main thing, the main thing”. Whatever you do, make sure you do it well but don’t allow the busy-ness of those things take away from your passion that makes life worth living!
5. Reflect: Give yourself a few minutes at the end of the day to reflect on everything you accomplished. It’s easy to instinctively make the list of things you didn’t get done, but change the question to “What did I accomplish today?” and know that you have made an impact on those around you.
I know things are not always so easy. If you find yourself needing help to make YOUR declaration, the therapists at Axiom Counseling & Therapy are client-focused and ready to assist you in making and meeting your goals. Feel free to call at (316) 239-1880 or email us at hello@axiomcounseling.com. Axiom Counseling: your path to true wellness.
