“DON’T STRESS THE COULD HAVES, IF IT SHOULD HAVE, IT WOULD HAVE.”
I came across writing on this topic “STRESS” when I am stressing about something that is not in my control, Currently surrounded by lots of if’s but I know this too shall pass, and will laugh back in the future when I will remember this day.
In today’s world, everyone has some or other stress which can be due to work, relationships, and many more so you are not alone. Stress is more about the future which does not exist and a series of ifs.
Rather than trying to avoid all stress, learn to understand it, and be aware of where it is helpful or harmful. In recent years, the world has been a sadder, angrier, and more worried and stressed-out place than it has been in the past 15 years, according to Gallup’s Global Emotions Survey.
Stress affects everyone’s body and mind in different ways. However, common symptoms can impact you both physically and mentally. It not only affects a specific part of the body but the full body which includes hair fall, lack of concentration, Weight gain or weight loss, and Insomnia.
Writing down below few tips and tricks to avoid and manage stress which we all can follow.
- Focus on your breathing
We can start small by just breathing in and out and it helps a lot when in stressful situations. Breathe in for a count of four, and then slowly out for a count of six.
2. Staying connected can help with stress
You can combat loneliness by staying socially connected. Connect with supportive friends, family members, and colleagues whom you can speak to about your concerns. This kind of social support is a key way to de-stress. It is also important for your overall social well-being.
3. 10–10–10 Rule
So, whether it’s about taking the new job offer, making investments, buying or selling a home, or even taking personal life decisions like marriage, this rule can help you come out of most dilemmas by providing you a long term lens.
According to the rule, whenever you are stuck in a dilemma surrounding any decision, ask yourself these 3 questions-
1. How will I feel about this decision in 10 minutes?
2. How will I feel about this decision in 10 months?
3. How will I feel about this decision in 10 years?
Once you have asked and got answers for all these questions, your mind will be better positioned to take the right decisions and you can avoid unnecessary stress.
4. Guided imagery
Guided imagery is a visualization technique that helps you re-center your mind by imagining a calm, peaceful setting. It’s known to reduce anxiety and stress and encourage relaxation. Here’s how you can get started.
- Lean back comfortably in your chair and close your eyes
- Take a slow, deep breath through your nose and let the air out completely through your mouth
- Continue this breathing pattern, releasing tension with each breath
- Imagine a feeling of warmth spreading from your lungs to your neck and head, down your arms to your fingertips, and continuing through your legs to your toes
- Next, imagine a place that is safe and comfortable for you
- Look from side to side at this safe, comfortable place and listen to the calming sounds around you
- Stay in that place and continue for two to three minutes
5. 4 A’s of Stress Management
First, avoid unnecessary stress in your life and release stress wherever you can. Learn how to say no to situations and obligations that you would prefer to steer clear of. Know your limits and stick to them to whatever extent possible.
Next, alter stressful situations if you cannot avoid them. For example, you can be more assertive about your preferences in a respectful way to ensure your concerns are heard by others.
You can also adapt to stressors in some cases. Reframe problems in different ways to see them as challenges or opportunities for growth. Adjust your standards from perfectionism to a willingness to be wrong.
Lastly, accept things that you cannot change.
We stress about most of the things which is not in your control and create imaginary scene about the worst case scenario.
