Small, Simple Steps to Help Reduce Stress

We’ve all been there. Whether it’s paying the bills on time, being stuck in rush-hour traffic, picking up the kids from soccer practice, or meeting a deadline, there are lots of stressful situations that can make daily life feel overwhelming. Even though you can’t eliminate stress altogether, there are many little things you can do to help reduce it:

• Simplify your “To-Do List” to a “Must-Do List.”

• Take on the most demanding tasks during the time of day you have the most energy.

• Plan ahead for stressful situations if possible. Visualizing yourself succeeding in a situation ahead of time will help lower the stress when you’re actually there.
  

  Simplify your “To-Do List” to a “Must-Do List.”

• To avoid extra-stressful trips, stock up on the things you use most and run out of frequently: batteries, light bulbs, toilet paper, stamps, and pet food, to name a few.

• Take a breather—literally, if you find that you are taking short, shallow breaths, it’s time to take a break. Sit down for a minute, take deep, slow breaths, close your eyes, and just relax.

• Try to make time to do something you enjoy every day.

• Do one thing at a time. Let yourself feel a sense of accomplishment before moving on to the next task.

Overall, keep your sense of humor, even if you do happen to forget something. Take advantage of even the smallest stress reducers. They may help you feel better in mind, body, and spirit.

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