Stress is a normal part of life and usually comes from everyday occurrences. Here are some ways you can deal with everyday sources of stress. Eliminate as many sources of stress as you can. For example, if crowds bother you, go to supermarket when you know the lines won’t be too long. Try renting videotapes rather than going to crowded movie theaters. If you are always running late, sit down with a pencil and paper and see how you are actually allotting your time. You may be able to solve your problem(and destress your life a bit) just by being realistic. If you can’t find the time for all the activities that are important to you, maybe you are trying to do too much. Again, make a list of what you do during the day and how much each activity takes. Then cut back. Avoid predictably stressful situations. If a certain sport or game makes you tense (whether it’s tennis or bridge), decline the invitation to play. After all, the point of these activities is to have a good time. If you know you won’t, there’s no reason to play. If you can’t remove the stress,remove yourself. Slip away once in a while for some private time. These quiet moments may give you a fresh perspective on your problems. Competing with others,whether in accomplishments, appearance, or possessions, is an avoidable source of stress. You might know people who do all they can to provoke envy in others. While it may seem easy to say you should be satisfied with what you have, it’s the truth. Stress from this kind of jealousy is self’inflicted. Labor-saving devices, such as cell phones or internet, often encourage us to cram too many activities into each day. Before you buy new equipment, be sure that it will really improve your life. Be aware that taking care of equipment and getting it repaired can be stressful. Try doing only one thing at a time. For example, when you’re riding your exercise bike, you don’t have to listen to the radio or watch television. Remember, sometimes it’s okay to do nothing. If you feel stress(or anything else) is getting the better of you, seek professional help—a doctor or psychologist. Early signs of excess stress are loss of a sense of well-being and reluctance to get up in the morning to face another day.
