Emotionally Intelligent Stress Management

These are a sample of options you have when in need of some stress relief:

  • Take a break and leave the room. Find a quiet space, even the loo will do.  

  • Compose yourself by taking at least 3 breaths. As you exhale, imagine a little bit of the tension leaving your body. (I find visualizing a dark cloud dissipating helpful.)

  • Gather your thoughts.  

  • Keep your focus on exactly what has been going on that is causing you the stress. Is it the task itself? How about more basic such as hunger or the space around you?

  • Does it will involve another person or people… What is missing?  

  • Once you know specifically what has thrown you out of balance, think about what can you do now to influence the situation.

  • Consider all the steps required to find a solution. Make a list, if only a mental list.  

  • What can you do today, right now?  Arrange your list in terms of priority. What has to be done first, then what?  

  • Consider the practicalities of your action plan. Is it realistic? Have you the time?  

  • Do you need advice or support? If so, whose?  

  • Fine-tune the steps you consider necessary to resolve the situation. Keep things realistic to avoid feeling pressure.

  • Having thought things through you may find the problem has changed in perspective. Adjust the plan accordingly.


It is most import to ensure that any action you propose to take is in keeping with your personality and can be executed in a style that suits you.
 
Written by Suzie Doscher, Executive Coach for Personal Development and Self-Help Author.

Photo Credit: Unsplash

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