Independence from Chaos
Breakneck speed doesn’t just apply to cartoon characters like Wile E. Coyote and the Road Runner anymore. For most of us, it describes how we make it through each day. But if “stress” and “chaos” are the adjectives you use to describe your home and work life, then it’s time to add a little calm to your day.

To keep your projects flowing, here are some tips to help you manage stress.

Identify where the stress is coming from.
If you know you’re stressed but aren’t doing anything about it, you need to slow down and think about where the stress is coming from. Before you can develop a successful plan to reduce your stress, you need to know exactly what your stressors are.

You’re feeling very sleepy.
Sleep deprivation isn’t a badge of honor. It reduces your concentration and overall effectiveness, not to mention it might also make you grumpy. Try to go to sleep at the same time every night, but give your brain time to cool down and disengage from work challenges before you turn out the lights.

It’s a balancing act.
Are you balancing your quiet time for concentration with your interaction with team members or family members? Does your furniture, especially in your work environment, adjust to support you? Can you see what you’re doing without straining your eyes? Take a look at your environment to see what’s relaxing you and what might be stressing you.

Did you have fun today?
Go ahead, laugh. And while you’re laughing, can you remember when the last time you had fun was?  It shouldn’t be relegated to just a couple times of year. Make a commitment to enjoy yourself more, making that part or your Stress Management Plan.

If “stress” and “chaos” are the adjectives you use to describe your home and work life, then it’s time to add a little calm to your day.