Get Your Students Hired
Like in the module, one of my main stressors is the commute to and from work. Waiting in traffic stresses me out tremendously. I am in the process of requesting a work schedule change so that I can be at work before morning traffic even gets started and off work before afternoon traffic gets started.
Robert, Sounds like you have a lot of good ideas for getting yourself to a good place. Now it's time to act on some of it. I know it can be hard to get started. I recommend starting small and working your way up.
Dr. Melissa Read
I have decided to not allow many things to stress me out, and I also workout at the gym 3 times a week to reduce any unknown stress.
I would like to start excercising again to help with my stress, and also stop smoking. I already talk to my dad to help with stress now, and that is very helpful. Thats something I have allways done and it definately works well.
What helps me cope with stress I make time to work on my "project cars" keeps my mind off the stress factors and of course while working on my cars I have a Big Smile on my Face !
Blossie, Sounds like you have a great handle on the coping mechanisms that work best for you. That's great to hear. I also love the way you have a variety of mechanisms to turn to. It's good to have options.
Dr. Melissa Read
The best physical activities to reduce my stress level is exercising and walking. Not only does activity distract me;but, it allows me to think more clearly. I am mentally better able to deal with stress provoking events.
Other activities are reading, talking, and praying.
I will continue to smile everyday. I truely feel that keeping the infectious smile going helps my stress level as well as others.
I could start with getting more sleep and excercising several times a week. learning to take a few minutes for byself before class also seems to help.
Craig, I like the idea of staggering your commute so that you are not driving with the masses. You are right, it speeds your way to work significantly and can help you avoid accidents too. Exercising before going to work can give you a nice start to the day. Some instructors are tempted to get to work right away, but a delay for exercise can make us more productive when we arrive.
Dr. Melissa Read
I love to get other people to walk with you. It makes for a good connection and being healthy together. I am going to do that.
Taking a walk and even doing some type of activity really works. Gets you refreshed.
I have found that walking after work with a friend has helped me when I have to start dinner for my son. I have a more cheerful attitude and it even gives me more energy. Walking and talking has had great benefits especially if it is only 30 minutes a day.
I try to commute to/from work during off hours to shorten travel time and reduce the chance of accidents. I often stay after "normal" quitting time to do the work that I could have done had I come in earlier but would have had to battle commuter traffic.
I also try to exercise before going to work to give me a "fresh" perspective start when I arrive.
If things get too hectic during the day, I take a break by walking outside or reading a something in a magazine that is not work-related.
David, Sounds like you have a wonderful living environment. Living amongst animals and being able to take long walks outside can be such a great outlet. I can easily see how this helps with productivity. When we are balanced and rested, our performance greatly increases.
Dr. Melissa Read
Melissa, Yes, sometimes catching your stress early can save you a lot of heartache in the end. We've got to learn how to detect the early warning signs and find coping techniques that work well in times of crisis. Breathing exercises are a great example of something we can do anywhere.
Dr. Melissa Read
First off I'd like to say that this module is a positive learning experience. Learning about how to manage stress is always a positive thing. Stressors that can not be eliminated seem to be issues that have to be dealt with by adapting and being flexible. One thing that helps me feel confident about myself is to exercise. Exercise not only makes you stronger, more fit, and physically more confident, but it also helps you relax, be more positive, and productive.
Sometimes I have 14-hour days to work and it helps to take a break mid-day and get out in the sunshine or go to a local park and enjoy nature. I also listen to music on my ipod and try to get to the gym 3 times a week to do 30 min. on a stationary bicycle. I have a special family member that is always good to talk to because just "venting" frustrations is sometimes very cathardic.
There are stressors in life that can not be eliminated and one should develop coping mechanisms to deal with them. Exercise, breathing, and getting enough sleep are the coping mechanisms that I think will help me.