How To Control Stress So It Doesn’t Control You
You can’t live life to its fullest if you are stressed and anxious.
I have endured several periods of intense stress during my life. These times exhausted me and made everything seem dark and difficult. Can you relate?
However, over the years, I learned from my experiences. Most importantly, I adopted several habits to manage stress proactively.
So, I will share the most effective habits I use to cope with stress and anxiety.
These habits helped me navigate life’s ups and downs with calm and clarity, whether juggling a demanding job, family responsibilities, or other commitments. And I hope they can help you too.
Best Stress-Reducing Habits You Can Try
Disclosure: At no cost to you, I may get commissions for purchases made through links in this post.
1. Set Boundaries
Setting boundaries is a critical habit of a stress-free life.
Saying no to things that do not align with your values or priorities will preserve your energy and emotional well-being. Whether setting boundaries with work, family, or social commitments, learning to say no at the correct times is crucial for reducing stress and maintaining your inner peace.
2. Be Grateful For What You Have
Being grateful is a powerful habit that can transform your relationship with stress. Thus, stress-free people regularly express gratitude for what they have, no matter how small.
Whether it’s keeping a gratitude journal, expressing appreciation to loved ones, or simply pausing to notice your surroundings’ beauty, practicing gratitude can shift your focus from what’s lacking in your life to what’s abundant.
Think of it this way. Most of the people and things in your life are okay. So, focus on the good stuff and forget the rest.
3. Embrace Imperfection
Stress-free individuals understand that perfection is an illusion. They know it’s okay to embrace imperfection.
Thus, do not strive for unattainable and unnecessary standards. Adopt a growth mindset and focus on progress over perfection.
Focus on being the best you possible, even if it’s not perfect. The world will never be perfect, and life gets messy at times.
However, by letting go of the need to control every outcome and embracing the inherent messiness of life, you will navigate challenges with greater ease and resilience.
Finally, remember this phrase when your need for perfection creeps in: “Don’t sweat the small stuff.”
4. Practice Stress Reducing Activities
Incorporating helpful habits into your daily routine will help reduce stress and promote inner peace. So consider how you can add one or more of these activities into your life:
- Meditation
- Yoga
- Reading for pleasure
- Warm bath or shower
- Disconnecting from electronics
- Walking outside
You may like – How To Hit Reset When Things Get Crazy
5. Live For The Moment, Live For Today
Yesterday is gone and can never be changed; tomorrow isn’t promised. So, live in the moment and focus on today.
Tackle today’s challenges with all of your energy and talents. Forget about yesterday’s problems, and never dwell on tomorrow’s unknowns.
By making today the best it can be, tomorrow will take care of itself.
Okay. Before continuing with my last 5 tips for reducing stress, pin this image so others can find stress relief, too!
6. Learn To Let Go Of Toxic People And Negative Events
In your journey to a stress-free life, it’s crucial to recognize and release toxic influences. Thus, identify and understand when specific individuals or situations are draining your energy and creating anxiety.
It’s okay to prioritize “you” and distance yourself from negativity to create a more peaceful and fulfilling environment.
So, let go of your grudges. Forget about the people who have done you wrong. Banish past criticisms from your mind unless constructive, and you can learn from them.
Most importantly, you only hurt yourself by dwelling on negative people, comments, and events.
Must read: How To Create Good Habits and Make Them Stick
7. Be Yourself
Stop worrying about what you are not. Nothing is more draining and stressful.
Conversely, focus on what you are.
You are unique, so identify your strengths and seek to maximize them. Understand your weaknesses and try to improve upon them.
But never try to be something or someone you are not.
8. Breath With Intention
Mindful breathing is one of the cornerstone habits of people who are never stressed.
Thus, take time to focus on your breath. Doing so will help calm your nervous system and promote relaxation.
For example, during my work day, I close my eyes for 30 seconds and take deep breaths.
If I wake up in the middle of the night, I inhale and silently say, “Relax.” On the exhale, I say, “Let go,” repeating the process until I fall back asleep.
9. Prioritize Self-Care
Individuals who know how to manage stress understand the importance of self-care. They make time for activities that recharge the body and mind.
Self-care is essential for maintaining balance and resilience in the face of stress. Thus, get enough sleep, consume a nutritious diet, exercise regularly, or take time out for hobbies you enjoy.
Related post: 7 Self-Improvement Tips for a Better You
10. Seek Support
People who manage stress understand the importance of seeking support when needed. Whether confiding in a trusted friend, seeking guidance from a mentor or therapist, or participating in a support group, reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Building a solid support network will provide valuable resources and perspectives when needed.
Best Habits For Reducing Stress: Wrap Up
Incorporating these habits into your life will help you have greater resilience, balance, and inner peace, even amid life’s challenges. Remember, it’s not about eliminating stress but building the habits and practices that allow you to respond to stress effectively.
So, pick one or more of these stress-busting habits and build them into your daily routine starting today:
- Set boundaries
- Be grateful
- Embrace imperfection
- Incorporate stress reducers
- Live for today
- Learn to let go
- Be yourself
- Breath with intention
- Prioritize self-care
- Seek support
Thanks for reading. Before you go, please pin this image to Pinterest so others can beat stress, too!
Author Bio: Tom Scott founded the consulting and coaching firm Dividends Diversify, LLC. He leverages his expertise and decades of experience in goal setting, relocation assistance, and investing for long-term wealth to help clients reach their full potential.