Stress Management – Identify the Cause of Your Stress

Have you been in the situation that you think, “I have my stress under control” and something minor happens and you lose it? It may be well worth it to take time to consider what cause your stress. There are many causes of stress being fear for the unknown or simply fear that things are not going the way you would like. Actually on a daily basis we encounter things that are not going our way. Then the question arises how can you truly identify your stress? Not all stress is bad. Stress can motivate you to take action in the direction of your goals and dreams. The stress of not wanting something to occur can actually make you focus on what you do want. However, let us focus on the type of stress that causes health problems, hopelessness in life and anger outburst.

Set time aside time to do some self analysis. Ensure that you will not be interrupted for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour. Everyone knows their schedule best. It may be best for you to wake up early when the house or apartment is quite if you are a morning person. You may prefer instead to do it late at night. Another suggestion is to pick a place outside your home like a library. You chose the location best suited for your needs. The main point here is not to get interrupted and be able to do some self analysis. Also, very important is to be truthful to oneself when doing this exercise. Remember to carry a pen or pencil with a notebook to write notes. At the location do the following exercise:

(1) First take a couple of deep breaths. Breathing can calm the body. It is a very simple way to clear the mind. If you have trouble focusing do about 3 to 5 minutes of breathing. Remember you have set aside time for yourself. Do not rush.

(2) Affirm to yourself that you will be truthful and that only you will know what bothers you. It is your choice if you will share or keep the income to yourself. You can either share it or keep it to yourself. Either way being truthful is key.

(3) Make two columns. In one column write down all things that cause you stress under the heading “What causes me stress?”. Remember to keep breathing as this exercise may cause you to go back into the stressful situation.

(4) On the second column write the question, “How can I become happy and balanced? or How can I become stress free?” This step helps you mind come up with solutions to clear or at least reduce the stress.

The above exercise is used to regain focus. As a society we live very stressful lives. We have numerous deadlines on the job, at home and commitments with the family. Taking time to identify the causes of our stress can help to ensure our lives maintain a good balance. The above exercise should be done at least three times to ensure the core stressors are discovered. Always remember there is always a solution. The cause of your stress may be obvious. There may be illness in the family, job loss or divorce.

At times the cause of stress not be obvious. Taking time to identify the cause of stress will further assist you on what actions to take. You may discover that you are not happy with your job or aspects of your job. Then you can put together a plan to get a new job or move to a department within the company you prefer. The idea is dig deep inside, although it may hurt, you will reap the benefits of being able to reduce your stress and live a happier life.

 

My background is in civil engineering with an MBA. My personal interest is helping people in various ways through my volunteer work and providing information that can improve their lives. www.reliefforsciatica.net & http://stressmanagement-tip.blogspot.com/