We all experience stresses in our lives at some point or another and this is perfectly natural. How we deal with these stresses varies greatly from individual to individual. Our ability to deal with stress is influenced by a number of things.
- General health both physical and emotional
- Whether we have a support network around us
- Whether there is a family history of depression
- Certain personality traits are more prone to stress eg. perfectionist, low self-esteem
Stress and pressure are two words that often go hand in hand. In order to do something positive about it, we first need to recognise the signs.
Signs that you are feeling overwhelmed and stressed out include:
- You keep putting things off that you know will have a huge benefit to your life, career or business
- You are lying awake and worrying
- You are being indecisive because you lack confidence in your decisions
- You wake up and are filled with dread even before the day has started
Tips to Help Reduce Stress and Overwhelm:
Tip 1 – Take back control by taking action
Think about the different areas of your life that are important to you. Eg. family, work, business, money and health. Pick the one area that is causing you the most pressure and really think about what is happening right now and why is it causing you stress.
- Make a list of all the small things you could do that would help or solve the situation. Don’t overthink about your answers just jot everything down that comes to mind.
- Look at through your list and see if you can add one or two more.
- Cross out anything that you are not willing or not able to do in the next couple of days.
- Looking at what is left and pick one that you will commit to doing.
- Share this with a friend, your coach or on social media. This accountability will mean it’s more likely to happen.
- Take ACTION!
It’s surprising how taking even the smallest of actions will not only help you feel in control but if you get in the habit of doing this regularly you will transform how you think and react to things.
Tip 2 – Talk about it
The old saying ‘A problem shared is a problem halved’ reinforces the benefit of talking things through. Sometimes it doesn’t matter who you talk to, the process of talking and ordering your thoughts may be enough for you to feel better or see a solution.
You can talk things through with a friend, coach or therapist.
Tip 3 – Think about your Big Why
Really thinking and visualising the reason behind what you are doing can motivate you if things get difficult.
For example – If you’re growing a business and are having to work long hours to do it. Think about why you are doing it.
- s it for the money?
- Is it for the lifestyle you will be able to live?
- Is it to be able to give up going out to work in a job you hate?
- Is it to do what you enjoy doing at your own pace and be your own boss?
Shut your eyes and picture the end result using as much detail as possible. Spend some time really thinking and visualising. Write it down and put it somewhere you will see it.
Tip 4 – Live a healthy lifestyle
Stress management is easier if you live a healthy lifestyle.
- Take time for rest and relaxation
- Look at your diet and see where it can be improved. If you eat healthier it will improve your energy levels which in turn could have a positive impact on your mood
- Essential oils are another way to help you improve your general health and wellbeing.
- Take regular exercise, even 20 minutes’ walk will help
Tip 5 – Be realistic
Whilst I’m a big believer in stretching yourself it has to be achievable. When we put unrealistic expectations on ourselves and don’t meet them we feel like we failed. In reality, it just wasn’t really possible.
It’s much better to set targets that are achievable as the boost you get when you complete them will make you feel great. It will give you the momentum to keep going.
Tip 6 – Seek professional help
Sometimes the best thing you can do is seek professional help especially if the problem is serious or persistent. There are a number of professionals who can help.
Counsellors
Counsellors typically look at an event or situation that has happened in your past that may be affecting you now and help you move past it. Counselling can provide a safe non-judgemental environment that can help you understand what is causing you stress and ways to cope with it.
Life Coaches
Coaches will look in detail at what’s going on for you and help you plan a way forward. Working with a coach is like having someone hold your hand as you tackle difficult situations. They will also help you identify any barriers you have that are holding you back and help you to find ways to overcome them. If you’d like to know more about what coaching is and how it can help you check out “What is Coaching?”
Doctors
It’s important to see a doctor if stress is a serious concern for you and is affecting your ability to function day by day. Doctors will assess your level of stress and can prescribe medication if needed. Alternatively, they can refer you to another specialist or therapist.
Hypnotherapists
Hypnotherapists work with your subconscious mind to change the way you think and feel about the pressures you experience in life. They can also help with correcting patterns of behaviours that are affecting your general health and wellbeing.
Final thoughts
Whatever pressures there are in your life right now you need to find a way to manage them before they take hold and become a real problem. There is no shame in admitting you’re struggling and seeking help really can make all the difference.
Having struggled with chronic pain and depression I know how difficult things can be. I also know things can change. You just have to be willing to do something about it. If you fancy a chat contact me. Alternatively, you can connect with me on Social Media using the links at the bottom.