How to deal with stress

STRESS happens to everyone every day. Family, work, unexpected changes, relationships, illness and money can cause anxiety. Stress affects people differently – some become anxious or defensive, others become depressed or withdrawn.

The first step in managing stress is to identify its source. Next, you can either change the situation or alter how you react to the situation.

No single method works for everyone or in every situation, so you have to ask yourself what works best. Here are some techniques you can adopt.

Avoid unnecessary stress

Learn how to say “no” sometimes. Taking on more than you can handle is a recipe for stress.

Reassess your priorities

Drop tasks that aren’t necessary to the bottom of the list or eliminate them entirely.

Compromise

When you ask someone to change their behaviour, meet them halfway and do the same.

Practise better time management

Make a list of the tasks you need to do and set aside a fixed amount of time to complete them.

Change your expectations

Look at the bigger picture. Ask yourself how important it will be in the long run.

Adjust your standards

Stop setting yourself up for failure by demanding perfection. – The Straits Times / Asia News Network