When we feel like we are not in control, our stress level increases. Therefore, it makes sense that the more we feel in control of our day, the less anxious we will feel, and research backs this up.
You can combat stress before it even starts by proactively planning your day, your week, and even your year so that you have more control of your time. Interestingly, and by no means a surprise, nearly 25 percent of our happiness is related to our ability to manage stress.1 On your daily calendar, block out chunks of time when your coworkers cannot schedule meetings so that you can work undisturbed.
Try planning today by the relationships that are most important to you, instead of by schedules or deadlines. Everything we do is really just a reflection of the relationships we have with others or with ourselves.2 If you reflect this accordingly in your calendar (including “me time”) you will be true to yourself and less stressed because of it.
Please note that there is no guarantee a particular stress relief tool will work for you. Thus you must take complete responsibility for using them and for your own physical and emotional wellbeing. Further, Professor Pete Alexander is not a licensed health professional. Please consult qualified health practitioners regarding your use of any stress relief technique. Medical advice must only be obtained from a physician or qualified health practitioner.
- Peláez, M. – Plan Your Way to Less Stress, More Happiness
- Davidson, S.G. – 101 Ways to Have a Great Day at Work
