Dealing with stress is practically a modern hobby. We invest fortunes in the latest fads for stress relief: spas, relaxation techniques, books, phone apps, gadgets and gizmos designed to ease our minds. But are we really taking the most effective approach?
If stress-relief techniques are not cutting it, go to the source. Take some serious time to evaluate the causes of stress in your life so you can reduce and eliminate them. Here are some common stressors and ideas for how to address them.
Money.
Consumer culture tells us to spend, spend, spend, and it’s easy to get caught up in the hype. But not feeling in control of your financial situation can be a major stress point. Make sure your purchases are things that really bring you joy and are not just for keeping up with the neighbours. Having a monthly budget will keep you on track and bring back your sense of control. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, seek help from a financial planner. Having a good handle on your finances can lift a huge weight from your shoulders.
Your home.
Shelter is a basic human need; we all need a safe haven where we can rest and relax. If your living situation brings you more stress than comfort, imagine (realistically) what kind of home would bring you peace. That mansion in the hills is a fun fantasy, but keep your goals achievable. If too much maintenance is wearing you out, look at ways you can change that such as low maintenance landscaping. If clutter is making you claustrophobic, purge. Enlist the help of friends or an organizing expert if you have trouble things letting go.
Your environment.
The people we interact with, our homes, workspaces and larger environment all have a huge effect on our well-being. Think about your previous week and where you were during times of stress. Perhaps talking with a negative acquaintance, sitting in traffic or working in a noisy office were triggers. Once you identify your stress points, you can do something about them. Changes can be big, but don’t have to be. Simply cutting out a toxic relationship, finding a more scenic route to work or investing in some noise-cancelling headphones may be a great first step in reducing your environmental stressors. Tackle one issue at a time and work your way from small on up.
