Work and career are a major source of stress for many people.  Ask yourself if you’re working on what’s important to you on the job and using your talents and your creativity. If not, maybe you need to make changes like delegating some small task so you’ll have more time to attend to the projects that hold your interest. At the end of the work day, do you feel good about your contribution, no matter how large or small it is? If you’re burned out at work, your relationships and family life can bolster you and be your buffer. But sometimes you may need to take more drastic action and find a better match between you and your business. Before you do, evaluate and take enough time to decide.

Recognize Your Breaking Point
 
Are you stressed out, lacking enthusiasm, overdoing food or alcohol and using them to cope and get by? Do you have many sleepless nights with jangled nerves that feel like taut electrical wires? Or do you feel like you can’t handle even the small stuff and are besieged by guilt or other uncomfortable emotions because you can’t piece everything together? That’s a warning sign that you’re on overload; don’t take it lightly.

Not paying attention to the signals that you are getting is a mistake you can’t afford. If you’re carrying too much stress and it’s attacking your body and your emotions, you must find a way to manage it. The stressors in your life won’t necessarily go away, but you can find ways to change your approach and give yourself the time and space you need to feel relaxed and in control. 

Relax and Renew

You need to find time to renew yourself. Take some time off to get back the energy and inspiration that you’re lacking. Remember that time off is not only good for your health; it can change your outlook and your attitude.

Immerse yourself for an hour, a day or a week in activities that calm and ease your mind and that feel good. Some of my clients find that walking in nature, listening to music or participating in physical activity help to re-balance. The choice is yours. 

Cultivate Relationships

Whatever you do to achieve balance, remember that supportive relationships both on and off the job are essential to feeling good and can help you cope with the stresses in your life more easily. So make time for the people that are important to you and seek out those who appreciate you and share your values.
 
Don’t forget that the most precious relationship that you have is with you.

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have fun

Remember, life is too short to spend your time stressed, frustrated and upset.  If you find yourself in this state too often, it’s time to make some changes to bring more fun and happiness into your life.

Dr. Jo Anne White is an author, international speaker, life coach and business consultant. Visit www.docwhite.org for more information.