There are plenty of tips on how to relieve stress once you’re amidst it. But what if we were able to stop stress before it happened? To a certain extent, we can.
Keep in mind that stress is impossible to completely get rid of. However, being proactive about stress gives us room to handle those events in a healthier manner. The key is not to overwhelm ourselves with stress, rather create a space where stress can be managed efficiently.
Here are five daily habits to help you relieve the stress in your life.
Make a list
Even if you aren’t the kind of person to make lists, laying out everything that is expected out of you will prepare you for what is still to come. Whether it be a daily, weekly, or even monthly list, knowing what the future holds is important. If you hate the idea of making s list, perhaps utilizing your favorite calendar app can be a good substitute. Depending, you can even make multiple lists regarding different processes or responsibilities that you are familiar with.
Put some thought into your list’s order
Depending on your list, you might have tasks that range in difficulty. Should you tackle the easiest and progressively tackle the harder ones last? This is entirely up to your personal preference, as there is no universally agreed-upon “best” way to structure your daily or weekly tasks.
Take a moment to consider your work ethic. Are you easily overwhelmed when you have many tasks? Completing a few small tasks may clear your mind and allow you to tackle more difficult tasks. If you struggle with procrastination, taking that most difficult task head-on may be best.
Make sure to play to your strengths. You know yourself better than any other person, and the more productive you are, the less stress that you will have to deal with down the line.
Focus on the positive
Obviously, stress can’t be completely stopped by just making one or two lists. Life happens, whether it’s a relationship or financial stuff, many unpredictable factors can bring stress. One way to make it through these life events is just to think positively.
This is easier said than done, but if it was to become a habit, it can completely revolutionize how you go through your day-to-day. One thing to avoid is to overthink situations, something that we have all done in the past. If there is something that needs to be presently dealt with, then focus on it, not what might come after.
Take self-care seriously
Very overlooked, self-care is usually a go-to answer when our customers ask how to relieve stress. There are many different examples of this, it could be taking a personal day when you need a change in your routine, or exercising after work.
Making yourself a priority will not only help yourself in a personal capacity, but it could open up opportunities to help you assist others in their personal lives.
Make a plan
Even with purposeful daily action, stress always seems to find a way into our lives. Being prepared to take on stress will diminish the time spent managing it. If we can approach stress in a logical manner, it will lessen our emotional response to it.
Don’t expect perfection
Everyone messes up, don’t hold yourself to any high standards regarding this stuff. Self-improvement through relieving stress is not a simple task for anyone, it can take weeks or months to see any changes in your life. However, at the end of the day, simply having a positive outlook on life will go far.