Guide to overcoming stress: Here are 5 steps to take right now

We all get stressed.

I know I do.

However, I have spent a lot of time researching resiliency best practices and how to deal with the stress in my life.

Of course, some stress is good.

But other stress is overwhelming. Destructive. And, not good for us.

So, what eases your stress?

You may have heard the advice of taking exercise and eating healthily. And that’s, of course, excellent advice. But there’s so more that you can do.

Resiliency means you have to take some defined steps to overcome stress.

And, achieve greater resiliency in your life.

1. Know yourself

Resilient people take note of your stress level. It may seem obvious but we all experience stress in different ways. You will need to be aware of what causes you stress and what reduces your stress levels.

2. Know the behaviors you use to deal with stress

What behaviors do you use to deal with stress? Are they healthy actions like exercise or are they unhealthy behaviors such as smoking, drinking, or eating poorly? Resilient people are encouraged to always use healthy ways to reduce their stress. Eat correctly, get enough sleep, drink plenty of water and engage in regular physical activity.

3. Become goal orientated

Do you get worried or stressed that you’ll forget something? To help yourself, simply identify your goals, focus your behavior on the task at hand and use to-do lists to help track what you need to do.

4. Take short breaks

Take a 10-15 minute break every few hours to recharge. Avoid the temptation of working through lunch and you will start to see immediate improvements.

5. Get support when required

None of us has all the answers so don’t fool yourself. Resilient people know this and are not afraid to seek the support of others.

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Kay Fitzgerald M. A.

Kay Fitzgerald is a health promotion specialist, course developer and researcher studying personal resilience in the workplace and trauma. Catherine received her Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Studies and a Master’s in Health Promotion from University College Cork.

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