The Prevention Plan

Stress. For as long as I can remember, it’s been a part of my life. It seems like the older I get, the world spins faster, days grow shorter, and there is more to be done.  Or maybe it is the other way around – the more that I take on, the more I am able to do.  I have spent the last year working full-time, pursuing my MBA, planning my wedding, and somehow also volunteering at several non-profit organizations.

It seems that at some point I was able transform the stress that used to create obstacles in my life into a conduit for accomplishing my goals. Along the way, I’ve discovered a few useful rules to help manage stress and turn it into something useful.

Listen to your anxiety. You know that nagging feeling you get when there is one item on your to-do list that you just keep putting off? Soon you feel sick to your stomach every time you think about it.

Now, I pick the thing on my to-do list that I want to do the least, and I accomplish it first. That awful anxious feeling never has a chance start, and everything else on the to-do list is accomplished quickly and easily.

Get organized. Life becomes overwhelming when you have a million things floating around in your head, a mess of papers on your desk, and your home is a mess. Create lists, get your files organized and clean the house. Adding some organization and structure to your environment has a similar effect on your mind.

Take on responsibilities that you enjoy. I realize that not everyone has this luxury, but when given the opportunity, choose responsibilities that bring you happiness. At work, volunteer for the projects that make you feel challenged and accomplished. Volunteer for organizations whose causes you feel passionate about. By taking out the things that seem like “work” and focusing on the things that bring you satisfaction, you will remove a tremendous amount of negative stress from your life.

Don’t sweat the small stuff. Things are going to happen that annoy you. Sometimes those things are big problems that need to be addressed at work or home. Most times, they are just minor irritants to your day. Take a deep breath, recognize the way you feel, and then make a conscious decision to move on. It’s not worth any more of your time or attention.

Take time out for you. Life brings lots of responsibility, and soon you’ll begin to feel stressed if you don’t take time to do simple things that make you happy. Don’t forget, this is your life, and it’s time to do something just for you. Exercise. Attend a yoga class. Read a book. Watch your favorite TV show. Have a lazy Sunday! You’ll feel rejuvenated and ready to take on whatever life brings your way.