Dealing with Stress: Part 1 of 2

I know that this is an issue that affects all of us. Even though I sometimes profess to hate writing, I must admit that it has become an activity that helps me alliviate stress. The following is part one of a two-part article I've written on the subject of stress.

Dealing with Stress: Positive vs. Negative Stress

Like it or not, stress is a fact of life for all of us. However, we need to understand that stress should not have to be a way of life. In today’s fast-paced world of two-income families, rising gas prices, and the ongoing desire to “keep up” with those around you, I’m sure many of you are asking how I can say that stress does not have to be a way of life. One thing I’m beginning to understand is that there are indeed many things in life that are completely and totally out of my control, but I also know that there are very few things in my own life that I can’t learn to manage.

So, why do we have stress?
Stress is not all bad. Stress can help you concentrate, focus, and perform at a higher level. Many people, me included, do their best work when under a moderate amount of pressure. The difference between those people who use stress to their advantage, and those who let it take over their lives comes in the aftermath of those challenges. Once the project is complete, or the goal achieved, they relax and enjoy their achievement. This relaxation enables them to build up the physical and emotional reserves they will need to meet the next challenge.

Stress becomes negative when you do not - or can not - relax after meeting the challenge. Too much stress can leave you feeling anxious, frustrated, tired, irritable, angry, tense, and depressed. If left untreated, chronic, ongoing stress can lead to emotional problems and even physical illness.

How do I make sure that my stress doesn’t become “negative” stress?
To stop the ongoing negative effects of stress you must learn to relax. In order to relax, you must make time for it! That means you have to schedules relaxation time, just as you would your shopping trips, errands, time for paying bills, soccer practice, music lessons, etc.

Learn about the SLAY technique, and some positive ways of combating stress in the next installment of this article.

To be continued...