Block out stress by prioritizing your commitments and taking time for yourself.
Stress can help you respond to threats, but chronic stress can threaten your mental, emotional and physical health. It can cause depression, sleep disorders, digestive problems, pain and heart problems. If stress is ruling your life, it's time to simplify. Making minor adjustments to your outlook and schedule can help you reduce stress and simplify your life.
Learn to Say No
If you are a person that wants to be everything for everybody, you may need to take a step back and look at your schedule. When someone requests help, take a moment to ask yourself if you have time or energy to devote to this person's needs. If you don't, or if you feel a request will add more unnecessary stress to your life, just say no. You can give reasons, or simply explain that you can't. Learning to use the word "no" can keep you from taking on too many commitments.
Get Rid of Clutter
Next time you purchase a new toy, clothes or appliance, take time to get rid of some old belongings first. Holding on to everything you ever purchased can lead to a cluttered home, which adds to your stress levels. So try this: If you buy two new shirts, promise to get rid of two old, worn-out items of clothing. If you already have clutter, spend a Saturday cleaning out the closets or garage, and hold a yard sale or donate to a thrift store.
"Me" Time
When you feel like your entire life is run by others --your boss, your kids, your mother-in-law -- schedule a time-out for yourself. If possible, try to find some special "you" time daily or weekly. Do something you enjoy that helps you burn away stress. Read a book, exercise, go to yoga class or spend time on a hobby. Taking time for yourself can help you recharge your mental and emotional batteries.
Let Go
You love your job, you love your kids, you love your book club and cooking class. Ask yourself if you really have the time for all of your daily activities, or are they adding unnecessary stress. For instance, if going to the book club means that the dishes don't get washed and your in-laws are coming over for dinner, allow yourself to skip the meeting. Even enjoyable activities can add stress if you pile on too many. Prioritize activities and obligations and be prepared to eliminate some. Create a schedule that isn't overwhelming.
Eliminate Debt
Money can be a source of stress if you don't have enough to pay all of your bills. Meet with a financial adviser and create a plan to get rid of debt. Cancel credit cards so that you won't be tempted to add more debt, and pay them off as soon as you can. Except for emergencies and expensive purchases, try to pay cash for everything. If you eliminate debt, you will have more money to devote to other needs. Knowing that your bills will be paid will help you reduce stress and simplify your life.
Tags: your life, love your, book club, have time, help reduce