Are you continuously putting out fires or juggling too many plates?  If so, there are solutions that will reduce your stress levels and increase your effectiveness.  If you do not make changes in your reactions towards people and situations, your stress levels will elevate over time and detrimental effects will occur in your job, health and relationships.  It is up to you, and only you, to take care of yourself and responsibility for your career and life.

First of you all, effective leaders know that some stress can be a good thing.  Some stress helps you stay focused and take action.  A little nervous anxiety pumps your adrenaline and ignites your energy to perform better.  Deadlines, special events, big client meetings or presentations should make you a little anxious.  This is a typical and beneficial response to stress.  But as they say, "Too much of a good thing, is not good."

Other factors such as long hours, people-pleasing, perfectionism, negative thinking, bottling up and self-induced fears can turn into unhealthy stress.  If you have reached a toxic stress level, you must give serious consideration to changing the way you think and react towards people and situations.  You can begin by taking the time to reflect on the areas of your life that are frustrating and unfulfilling.  Then, determine how you would like these areas to be.  Finally, you must take action to get to where you want to be. Nothing changes unless something changes.

10 Techniques to Conquer Stress

1. Develop positive self-talk, thinking and visual imagery.
2. Let go of control and delegate.
3. Express your feelings and boundaries assertively.
4. Be open-minded and flexible.
5. Welcome feedback and criticism.
6. Let go of the past.
7. Look for new ways and approaches.
8. Stay fit.
9. Bring fun and laughter into your life.
10. Realize what is most important in life.

Whether you are demonstrating personal or professional leadership, your ability to effectively utilize your cognitive ability and emotional intelligence will determine your success or failure. The actions you take to conquer your stress will determine the directions your career and life will go.  Each decision you make today effects your tomorrow.  If you do not want to fall behind or be miserable, you must decide today to take the lead.  Change is hard but you can take control of today's demands.  You deserve to have a fulfilling career.  You deserve to be happy.

Imagine It, Believe It, Become It,

Nancy

Looking Forward!