In today's real estate market place, managing stress is critical for maintaining balance in all phases of one's life, not just work. I was surprised to learn that stress in small doses is not only good for you, but can prevent certain types of cell damage. Imagine! Also, one's personality, genetic make-up and life experiences all dictate whether one reacts calmly or irritably towards stress. For some, just talking about stress can be stressful.
However, it is important to know that persistent stress, even in low doses, can do more damage than unexpected, tragic events. This is where I am focusing my concern. Sometimes we don't realize that a morning bout in traffic, a difficult phone call at noon, then having an appointment cancel at the last minute, can all send the anxiety spiking. Little stressors like this, day in and day out, can add up to trouble, but not if we are vigilant.
How do we cope?
Optimistically, time management and organizational skills reduce clutter and stress levels in one fell swoop. Both take time to master, but repeated efforts make lasting habits. Keeping planners (of course!) and making a list of priorities for the day's goals helps create clearer time management. This also shows exactly how much you can achieve in a day, a week, a month. Being realistic in your goals and consciously working within your own energy levels reduces stress over unmanageable expectations placed by you or others.
During the course of your day, be mindful with whom you spend your time. Minimize interactions with negative-minded people. They not only raise one's blood pressure, but do nothing to reinforce your own good feelings. Take short breaks during the day, stretch---even in your chair! And, always find a reason to laugh.
If you feel your stress levels are still too high, perhaps make a weekly list of what activities make the greatest demands of your time, personally and professionally. Rate them. This helps you pinpoint where the higher stressors are and where to focus on easing the tension. Finally, find time for yourself--an hour, and afternoon and best of all, a well-deserved vacation-even if it's in your own back yard!
For more information on stress and how to handle it, visit www.mayoclinic.com/stress. How do you manage your stress levels?
Comments(2)