Stress-busting tips

Take control of stress with the following tips:

Simplify

• Set priorities for yourself. Organize your time so that you do the things that are most important to you first. Let less important things go.
• Make decisions right away instead of putting them off. Worrying about what decision you have to make can cause unnecessary stress.
• Identify things that cause you the most stress. Then, look for ways to get around them. For example, if you find traveling stressful, see if you can make a phone call instead.
• Concentrate on doing one thing at a time. Once you have finished a task, take a moment to let yourself feel good about getting it done. Take a rest if you need it, and then move on.
• If you are running late, or if you feel overwhelmed, cancel or reschedule your appointments.
• Learn to say "No." Save your energy for the things that are most important to you.

Get support

• Don't try to do everything yourself. Ask your friends and family members to help with some of your responsibilities.
• Talk about your feelings with family and friends. Make sure you take time for social activities and exercise. You'll be more prepared to deal with situations that cause you stress if you've taken time for fun!

Plan ahead

• Think about which situations cause you stress. Then, plan ahead to minimize or avoid these predictable sources of stress. For example, if waiting in line is stressful for you, bring a book to help pass the time. If you find the morning rush stressful, get up 15 minutes earlier so that you don't feel so rushed.
• Schedule breaks for yourself throughout the day. This will give you a chance to rest, and will also prevent the stress that comes from getting "behind schedule."

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