Job Success
Coping with Stress and Anger
How do you cope with stress?
There are positive and negative ways to cope with stress. When properly managed, stress can help you complete goals and improve the quality of your life. If improperly managed, stress can lead to excessive fatigue, irritability, anger, depression, and illness.
Examine the way in which you cope with stress. Do you have healthy or unhealthy coping strategies?
Healthy coping strategies include:
- Exercising
Studies have shown that engaging in some form of exercise, such as walking, jogging, swimming, cycling, or aerobic dance, can help reduce anxiety levels. Walking is an easy low-impact activity and a great way to start. To remain active, find something you enjoy. If you're bored, cross-train or try a new sport. Consult your physician before beginning an exercise program. - Making personal time for hobbies and self-care
With the demands of work and family, it can be difficult to make time for yourself. However, taking time away to do what you enjoy will help you relax and result in a renewed sense of energy and well-being. This is especially important when you're too overtaxed and stressed. - Practicing deep relaxation techniques
Engaging in deep breathing, meditation, stretching, yoga, or prayer can help your relax and focus. - Balancing work and family life
While you want to do everything you can to be sure you're successful in your career, make sure you are spending quality time with your family. Finding a beneficial balance will leave you happier and more fulfilled. - Using time-management skills
Falling prey to procrastination can quickly leave you feeling overwhelmed. Learn ways to better manage your time. By focusing your efforts, you'll accomplish more with less stress.
Unhealthy coping strategies:
- Difficulty communicating
- Abusing alcohol or drugs
- Smoking
- Overeating
- Overspending
- Procrastinating
Instead of relieving stress, unhealthy coping strategies often contribute to higher stress levels. This is because unhealthy behavior can further complicate your life, resulting in more stress.
