| C
– Control the phone. The phone can the be an empowering tool
or a nuisance that interrupts every thought. Consider using an
answering machine when you don’t want to talk. |
| D
– Decaffeinate. Each cup of coffee cranks you up to fully
experience stress. |
| E – Exercise.
It’s documented to relieve stress and help prevent
depression. |
| F
– Find new friends – and keep the old. When you’re not
the center of your life, stress won’t be either. |
| G
– Get a checkup. The stress you feel about seeing the doctor
can be relieved only by going to him. |
| H
– Have a schedule. Plan your work, your play and your
relaxation, so you’ll be sure to find time for all three. |
| I – Improve
your communication skills. Learn to say what you think and to
really listen when others speak. Communication relieves
stress. |
| J
– Just say no when it’s appropriate. If you’re the kind
who always says yes, learn when it’s time to decline. |
| K
– keep a smile on your face. Research has shown that a smile
– even if it’s pasted on – starts you on the way to
being happy. |
| L
– Learn new skills. The antidote to worry about losing your
job is to make yourself all the more valuable. |
| M – Manage your
weight. Stress can lead to overweight, and being overweight is
stressful. Don’t eat for relief. |
| N
– Negotiate your work environment. Stress can come from
noise, an uncomfortable chair or poor lighting. Ask for
improvements. |
| O
– Operate openly. If you get angry, say so |
| P
– Pet your pet. Sometimes we need a nonjudgmental friend. |
| Q – Quit the
booze. The stress relief is only temporary, and temper control
suffers. |
| R
– Relax. Meditation techniques are proven stress relievers. |
|
S – Seek
spirituality. Whatever your preference, a spiritual community
provides understanding, forgiveness and hope. |
