· Change your perceptions, change your life.
Focus on what can be changed, not on what can’t. It is not the events in our life that have negative affects on our mood and experience – it is our reactions. Remember that thoughts, interpretations and assumptions are not actually facts or reality! What is the story that you’re telling yourself that is preventing you from moving forward, and “getting over” the event?
· Try to think more positively.
Stress can be positive! If we put a negative spin on it, then it will be negative. The average person has over 50,000 thoughts per day. If even only 10% are negative, then that’s 5,000 negative thoughts per day! Start the day with the intention to think positively about your stress.
· Don’t forget the importance of humour!
When under stress, a sense of humour is often one of the first things to go. Smiling, laughing, and looking at the light side of life can do wonders for our mental health.
· Take care of yourself mentally and physically.
Nurture and nourish both your body and your mind. Eating well and exercising will help you keep your stress under control and you will feel healthier in mind and body.
· Practice compassion. Don’t be too hard on yourself—or on others.
People who truly like themselves and look for the good in others are far less stressed than people who are judgmental. Accept imperfections and mistakes in yourself and others with kindness and compassion. No one is perfect – that’s part of the human condition!
· Focus on what is in your control, not what is beyond it.
Those who focus on what is in their control are more resilient and more likely to grow from stress.
· Challenge and commit yourself to do what you love.
People who are energized by pursuits they love and to which they are committed are generally more resilient. Take interest in some activities that contribute to making the world a better place.
· Connect with others—don’t isolate!
Establishing meaningful, authentic and supportive relationships with people, family, friends, coworkers, and neighbours can reduce negative stress a lot. Vulnerability helps to manage stress and build resilience.
Adapted from Tips for Managing Stress-Not Carrying It! By Judith A. Belmont