Manage stress: THE Four A's
 

Four methods for managing stress are: Avoid, Alter, Adapt and Accept.

Avoid the stressor – not all stress can be avoided and it is unhealthy to avoid a situation that requires attention but know your limits and stick to them. Learn to say no. Avoid people who stress you out. If you can’t avoid them, then limit your time with them. Take control of your environment – take a different route home or to work, distinguish between “should” and “must” in your schedule; prioritize what needs to be done.

Alter the situation – if you can’t avoid a stressful situation, try to alter it. Take a look at how you can prevent the problem from arising in the future. This usually involves changing how you don’t take a backseat to your own life, manage your time better. You can alter the amount of stress you are under.

Adapt to the Stressor – if you can’t avoid or change it; then change yourself. You can adapt and regain your sense of control by changing your expectations and attitude. Reframe the problem – try to find the positive in a negative situation, look at the big picture – is it really worth getting upset over? Adjust your standards – don’t set yourself up for failure, Focus on the positive – take a moment and reflect on the things you appreciate in your life – including YOURSELF! Keep things in perspective.

Accept the things you can’t change – some sources of stress are unavoidable and beyond our control (loos of a loved one, serious illness, national recession). The best way to cope in this case is to accept them. Share your feelings – talk to someone (friend or therapist) and learn to forgive. Let go of anger and resentment and move on. Look at major challenges as opportunities for personal growth. Take time to reflect and if your own choices have contributed to a stressful situation and learn from it. Find the positive and focus on the thing you can control. The way you choose to react.