Managing Sources of Stress

Every day, our lives are made up of moments that affect how we feel. Some moments cause us stress, and drain us of our energy. Because we can’t always eliminate difficult moments, it’s important to recognize them and learn how to manage them. Noticing stress in our lives can help us be better prepared to manage the stress before it becomes overwhelming. 

When we are very busy, our attention can be pulled in so many directions that it can be hard to manage the basics that set us up for success. If we do not give ourselves the basics, our ability to handle stress diminishes.  To minimize this, ask yourself questions like: 

• Have I eaten? 
• Am I hydrated? 
• Have I slept well? 
• Does anything hurt?

Once you are more aware of your sources of stress, you’re better able to take action toward releasing that stress. You can also be aware of how engaging in certain types of activities affect you.  Double check the following possible sources of stress:

• Be mindful of news consumption: How do you receive your news? Through television, newspaper, social media, etc.? Notice if different media affect the level of stress. What are your sources of news? Consider if the source is a reputable one. Notice how you feel after taking in the news. If you are feeling stressed, which is not unusual, you may consider limiting the amount of time you spend watching or reading the news.
• Evaluate your relationships: Do you notice your stress increases after being around certain people? Consider what types of boundaries could help with people who tend to increase your level of stress. 
• Manage your environment: Have you ever noticed you walk into a room and immediately feel more relaxed, or a stressful chaos? Organizing your space in a way that feels good to you can help eliminate stress caused by your environment. 
• Notice the way you talk to yourself: Be mindful of what you say to yourself and how it makes you feel. Talk to yourself the way you would talk to your best friend. 
• Practice gratitude: Identify what you’re grateful for in your life, putting in as much detail as possible. Take time to dwell on each item you are grateful for.