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Robert, So true. It is far too easy to become consumed with the drama. Sometimes taking a step back and just a little time for ourselves is the only way we can move forward without getting too consumed with the challenges of the day.
Dr. Melissa Read
Alan, Excellent to hear. At times, we just need a little reinforcement on direction. Many of us already have coping mechanisms that we rely on, and that's how we've gotten as far as we have in our lives.
Dr. Melissa Read
Mohan, Yes, that's one way to approach it. Another is to find a way to become a little more productive during that commute time. You can try things like music, books on tape or even taking a call if that is permitted in your state. These things don't make the commute any shorter, but may help make the time feel like it's passing faster.
Dr. Melissa Read
Beverly, Yes, getting proper rest can be a huge game changer. A lot of instructors don't realize how tired they are all the time. It's hard to catch up on sleep and sometimes not possible at all.
Dr. Melissa Read
This module helped reinforce the many things I already do to reduce the stressors in my life.
Steven, Sounds like that would be a great outlet for you. It's important to connect with people who are experiencing the same kinds of challenges as you are. Sharing experiences and perspectives can help a lot when it comes to coping. Also, exploring solutions for minimizing stress together helps too.
Dr. Melissa Read
The stressor that I cannot eliminate is the long drive through the traffic to reach to work. However, by giving a little bit more time for the commute, I hope, i may be able to cope with this stressor.
Something that I need to change is to not internalize the stress. I need to find another faculty member to meet with and vent. Someone my equal who will understand the stress and offer some possible coping strategies would be important.
What seems to help is to take a step back every so often and breath. For a moment, an hour, a day, whatever it takes, to consciously detach from the particulars and micro-details, and re-evaluate the big picture. It is all too easy to become wrapped up in all of the ongoing drama and lose perspective along the way.
Rebecca, Excellent to hear. I'm glad to know you have several techniques to choose from. This variety can serve us well and keep us interested in staying stress free.
Dr. Melissa Read
I already employ a number of healthy coping mechanisms. Life is always changing, though, and I'll tuck the technique of creating a list of current stressors away in my mind.
I have learned a couple of ways to deal with stressors that cannot be eliminated. For starters, I am already a person who loves to exercise, so I could increase the amount of exercise I currently do, when feeling overwhelmed. Also I can call a friend or just take some quiet time to myself and breathe!
Jumana, Sounds like you have developed at least two great coping mechanisms for dealing with stress. Great work! Also, it's nice that one of your ways of dealing with stress benefits your children too!
Dr. Melissa Read
Vance, Yes, sometimes sharing and getting feedback from others is the best approach. It can be great to use friends or colleagues as a sounding board when exploring new solutions. They too may have some good ideas for you!
Dr. Melissa Read
Michael, So true. Just knowing you have a fallback plan for managing through stress is often enough to get you through your days.
Dr. Melissa Read
Meher, That's really tough. When we lose one source of income in the family, there's a lot that usually has to change to manage through it. Sounds like you have some nice coping mechanisms to rely on.
Dr. Melissa Read
my husband lost his job, that was a great stress form me...now i relax with sleep, reading, movies
When coping with stressors that cannot be reduced I have started meditation and it has helped me a lot. Another think that I have started doing more frequently is playing with my kids outside or just been in the pool with them.