So, this week was something. I have been doing a lot of things: church work, school work, real work, and it’s taking a toll on me. For those of you who don’t know, I have been taking classes to get a certification for the past 10 months. It’s coming down to the end, and for me, that usually means I am getting anxious.
I had a project due this week, that was sort of like a capstone presentation where we must demonstrate all we have learned, in order to move forward in the program. Previously, I sat in on one, and the instructor totally hammered down on a guy. She was disappointed and sounded somewhat offended. Now, this is a program filled with working adults who, if they’re like me, have a whole lot going on…more than just studying. Admittedly, I felt super anxious because the same exact instructor was overseeing my presentation. I mean, who likes to fail? Well, the presentation is over and I’m still here and alive. Annnd I PASSED!! But, it got me thinking. What are some good ways to curtail and deal with stress? We all have some point and time where there’s a whole lot to do, and very little time to do it.
Here are 4 ways I deal with stress (at least I try to):
- Pray. We all know the power of prayer. Sometimes talking it over with God and giving it to Him helps ease our minds. We know He’s in control and He wants the best for us. So, try to give it to Him in prayer.
- Journal. Write it down. Whatever it is. Write down your fears, write down your to-do-list. Just let it go. You’ll feel better.
- Exercise (Run, walk, do yoga). A little physical release gets those feel-good hormones going in the brain, and can also help us focus more when it’s time to get to work. Go on, give it a try. You’ll thank me later.
- Reward Yourself. This is one of the best parts. (For me, anyway.) I tell myself: “when I get through this, I’m going to do _____.” This gives us something to look forward, and may motivate us to continue to move forward and push through. Right now, my reward has changed. I went from a new outfit, to a new juicer, to shoes, and now I’m back to a new juicer. Hopefully, I’ll make a firm decision and act on it soon. :/
What are some ways do you deal with stress? Comment below.
