I was honoured to conduct workshops at both Scripps and Pitzer College this week. At Scripps we discuss time management techniques and at Pitzer stress management strategies. I loved both sessions! It’s amazing to me how much pressure college students have in terms of figuring out their next steps post-university. What is interesting is the strategies I shared are the same for all of us. Read on to learn some tips on how you can manage your stress.
Here is a picture of Scripps College. Isn’t it beautiful?
“7 Tips to Reduce Your Stress Level”
Per the internet, stress management involves controlling and reducing the tension that occurs in stressful situations by making emotional and physical changes.
The following tips will help you make those emotional and physical changes needed to reduce your stress level. I could write a separate article for each one, but giving you an overview of each will help you move forward.
Tip #1: Identify your values. Incorporating your values in your life will help you live a richer more fulfilling life. Decide what the top five areas of your life are the most important to you, i.e. education, family, success, financial security, spirituality, happiness, freedom, etc.
Tip #2: Time for you in order to thrive. It’s important to make time for yourself regularly in order to re-chare your batteries and to make sue you’re enjoying your life! They should be things that are just for you, i.e. a walk, time with friends, a hot bath, reading etc. Also, what I’ve found to be true is that when you are happy, everyone around you will be happier too – so it’s a win-win!
Tip #3: Stop “shoulding” all over yourself! The key here is top doing the things you “should” and start doing what you want to do. What comes hand in hand with this, is getting comfortable with saying no to people. Think of a respectful response you can start using today!
Tip#4: Manage your expectations. What will happen if you don’t get it all done? I’m learning that the more we “expect” of ourselves, the more stress we actually create.
Tip #5: Make decisions from a positive place. Your life will flow in a positive direction when you make decisions form a happy place to begin with. Think about a time when you were at your best. Doesn’t it make sense you would make better decisions from there?
Tip #6: Attitude of Gratitude. When you feel grateful you will be in a positive state and attract more positive into your life. Think of what you’re thankful for and how you can make this 1-2 minute process part of your daily routine.
Tip #7: Practice meditation. You will notice an increase in confidence, the ability to trust your instincts and experience less stress. Guided meditations are a great way to start, and think about doing 5-10 minutes a week 2-3 times a week.
Remember, this is constantly a work in progress, and if you can even implement one idea you will likely notice a big shift!