Finding Your Peak Stress Zone
It’s time to focus on being a more resilient you! Each of us has stresses in our lives, especially when faced with situations we cannot control. Stress can actually be a good, positive force, provided you find a way to deal with it appropriately, and don’t let it build up so much that it feels like an overwhelming force.
Each person has a “peak zone” in which their stress level is perfectly balanced. Too little stress and life becomes boring and monotonous. Too much stress and the danger of burning out starts to become a reality.
How do you find that perfect balance? I wish I could tell you there was an easy answer. However, each person handles stress differently, and what works for one person, may not work for the next. That doesn’t mean I can’t give you some ideas though. It’s up to you to take control and find what works for you, and what level you should be operating at on a daily basis.
1. If you’re near your burn-out point, practice the art of saying no. You cannot be all things to all people, so don’t try to be.
2. If you’re not getting enough stress in your life, try learning a new hobby, taking some classes, volunteering, or just try new things in general.
3. Stop worrying about the things you cannot control. I know, easier said than done. I want you to really work on this one though, it is a key point. There are so many things each day that you cannot control. The traffic, the weather, other people in your life – these things can’t be changed, so spending time worrying about them isn’t helping you. Instead, practice ways you can deal with these situations.
4. Take control of the things that you can. You are in control of yourself, your attitude, and the way you react to what happens around you. Solve the little problems that you can, work hard to keep yourself positive and accepting, and take care of yourself.
5. Exercise. It could be a walk, a jog, yoga, or playing a sport – as long as you are doing something to get your heart pumping and release that pent up stress you’re holding in.
6. Look for the good in others. If you are in conflict with someone, you will constantly seek out bad things about them. You will actually spend time looking for things you can complain about. Instead of wasting that energy, work hard to find good things about them, and things you can learn to appreciate about them.
7. Try meditation. Some people have great success with meditation as a way of managing stress. Grab a meditation CD or download, and try it out.
8. Spend some alone time each week. It may only be 20 or 30 minutes every week, but find a way to make time for you. Go for a hike, read a book, sit on the beach, or watch boats go by on the river – whatever allows you to just unwind for a while.
Remember, your goal is not to be stress-free. Instead, focus on finding that perfect balance of just enough stress, and learn what skills you can use to avoid burning out or wasting away.
