Dealing with Stress

'Stress' - is my least favourite word. Just saying it makes my heart race! I don't mean to sound like a pessimist - not at all but unfortunately, nowadays it is an unavoidable consequence of modern day living. How can we take steps to be our own stress managers?

1) Prioritise your daily tasks in order of importance.

You have a much better chance of being able to deal with your daily tasks if you are organised. What is the most important task that requires your attention? If you can manage your workload, you will be able to prevent stress from creeping up on you!

2) Time Management.

Make sure you don't take on too much work all at once. Remember - you are a human being and you can only deal with so many things! If your boss wants you to take on more responsibility at work, don't simply say 'yes' without due consideration. Are you ready for such a big commitment? Is this what you really want? Make sure you know what your priorities are before making this kind of decision. You don't want to have regrets!

3) Get enough sleep.

Buring the midnight oil too much, isn't good for your health. You will find it much easier to deal with the next day if you have had enough sleep the previous night. If you have a seminar or a presentation to give at work, leave enough time to prepare for it wihout relying on 'all nighters' to see you through.

4) Eat healthily and regularly.

If you have are under a lot of pressure, your body will need energy to function at the optimum level. Skipping meals should be avoided if you want to be able to work to your full potential. Try to avoid sugar and caffine as they will not be able to provide the nourishment your body needs.

Copyright Christina McDonald 2009

Creating a harmonious and happy marriage.

Due to hectic work schedules and the pressure of multiple commitments, marriage quality may suffer as a consequence. Making time for each other should be a priority especially if you have a family to look after. We all have a 'to do' list and it is important that list prioritises your most important considerations for your happiness and wellbeing and that of your partner. So, what are the most important factors when it comes to relationship maintenance?

Communication:

It is vital you communicate regularly with your partner especially if something is causing a problem in your relationship. The worst thing to do is keep silent as your partner will not understand what is wrong. As soon as you communicate with your partner, you are already taking important steps to strengthen your relationship in the best way possible.

Honesty:

Cultivate honesty in your relationship. Don't tell your partner what they want to hear. Be truthful and emcourage your partner to do the same. Openness and honesty will ensure that you and your partner can feel comfortable being yourselves in each other's company.

Share responsibility:

Make sure you and your partner share responsibilities. If you feel like you are the one carrying the majority of the workload, sit down with your partner and discuss it with each other. Don't the let the situation deteriorate by ignoring the problem. Come to an agreement with your partner as soon as possible and explain why you feel you need extra help and support.

Make time for each other:

We all have very busy lives and it is therefore extremely important to make time for your relationship. It is so easy to be snowed under with work commitments and deadlines and it can take over our lives completely if we are not careful. Arrange a romantic night together in which the two of you can relax and enjoy each other's company.

Copyright Christina McDonald 2009