Make the Stress Go Away

Vashon Island, Washington

As I talk with my friends I see that there is a common theme...stress.  We are very good at bringing on the stress.  We are all over-achievers.  We are working moms...at various stages of rearing children.  Some of us are working at being retired.   It doesn't matter what age we are or at what career stage:  There is Stress!

Since I am working at being retired I was spending the day focused on cleaning up and out the multitude of stuff that I have so carefully collected and stored.  Why?  I think at this stage I can safely admit that I am a pack rat.  I have done an exceptional job as a pack rat.  Not a pleasant thing to admit but, sadly, it is true.  That said, as I cleaned today, I came across a leaflet that I had saved.  It is titled, Leaving Stress Behind and I would like to share it with you.

I know that we all acknowledge that stress is in our lives.  The question that always surfaces is, "What can I do to reduce the stress?"

Below are some tips that can be used both at work and at home.

At Snoqualmie Falls, Washington

Leaving Stress Behind

adapted from ...teacher today

During the Workday

Keep a "good job" file.
Whenever you receive a positive note from a colleague, boss, or friend, put it in a "good job" file.  If you are feeling stressed or unappreciated, pull out the cards and notes to remind yourself of the times you made a difference for someone or when you were recognized for your work and/or achievements.

Plan a day to work at home.
Some jobs are not conducive to this but if yours is, you may want to consider scheduling a day to work at home to complete reports or writing that must be done.  Being able to access computer files and email from home allows you to stay in touch, while you are wearing your pajamas or oldest jeans!

Deal with a problem situation.
When a problem weighs heavily on your mind, confront it directly.  Find a solution.  Talk directly to the person involved.  Determine the steps that you need to take.  Yes, procrastination is easy, but not sleeping at night because of it won't make it better.  Take action!

Keep your sense of humor.
Find time to laugh and share your laughter with others. 

Spend time with your colleagues.
Take your break!!  (The work will always be there.)  Eat lunch with your friends.  Take a few minutes to finish that chapter in the book you are reading.  Enjoy some conversation that is not work related!

County Park above Ada Resort, Oregon

During Your Private Hours

Read for pleasure.
Read the latest best-seller about a subject that is not related to your work.  Choose a book that immerses you in another place in history or on a subject that you have wanted to learn more about.  Spend time each day with your book.

Plan to cook a meal.
Take time to page through some of the cookbooks on your shelf or some of the magazines that have been piling up!  Develop a shopping list.  Spend time in the kitchen preparing a wonderful meal for your family or friends.  Or if you need a break from cooking, review restaurant menus and plan to go out for a nice evening with friends.  Just meeting up on an afternoon after work to share a cup of coffee or a glass of wine is relaxing.

Take a "fun" class.
Whether the subject is photography, gardening, painting, sewing, fixing cars....keep one night a week for your own learning and enjoyment.  Mark you calendar so you do not forget while you develop a routine!

Make an appointment.
Get a massage, a pedicure or manicure.  Better yet, have a "spa" day and pamper yourself all day long!  Join a gym and make a appointment at least three days a week.  Meet with a personal trainer and set up a regular routine.  Be sure to schedule a periodic appointment with the trainer to keep tabs on how you're doing.

Enjoy the outdoors.
Take a day trip.  Enjoy the outdoors....hike, take a picnic, go fishing, skip rocks, photograph the countryside, breathe in the fresh air, listen to the water roll down the stream....enjoy the scenery!

Paulina Peak, Oregon



Susan at A Southern Daydreamer is hosting Outdoor Wednesday.  You may wish to visit her site to see all of the wonderful outdoor posts!