Managing Stress
Stress. We are faced with it every day, but sometimes we don’t know how to deal with it. It is important to learn how to handle stress, as it can affect your performance, relationships with coworkers, and even how you think about yourself.
The first step to managing stress is to identify your "stressors.” Stressors can be internal factors, such as thoughts, feelings, or expectations, or external factors, such as getting a promotion or losing a loved one.
Frequent stressors include:
- Not enough time
- Unexpected change
- Family problems
- Extra responsibility
- Personality clashes
- Money difficulties
Ways to Manage Stress
Individuals have different needs for managing stress. Try out a few different coping mechanisms to find out what works for you:
- Engage in an activity that you enjoy
- Vent to a close friend, coworker, or loved one
- Write down what is bothering you
- Start a gratitude journal
- Go for a walk or exercise
- Meditate
Ask Yourself:
- What are your personal stressors? What triggers them?
- Are your stressors important or unimportant? Are they controllable or uncontrollable?
- Do you have anyone close to you that you can discuss your anxieties with?
- Can you create a plan for the next time a stressful situation occurs?
