Choosing to Make Less Stress a Priority

Choosing Not to be Afraid of the Dark Choosing to Reset Our Thoughts When W...

Choosing to Make Less Stress a Priority

@bethvogt

I snapped a photo of a Good Housekeeping magazine article’s title – “15 No-Fail Stress Busters to Deal with This Year’s Chaos” – and texted it to my 3 daughters and one daughter-in-love.

“I think I need every one on this list.” Ha Ha. They each responded with laughing emojis, but I’m certain they all felt the same way I did: Give me everything on the list. Now!

Of course, I got interrupted before I could read the list. And then I asked my 4 daughters to help me compile a list of their go-to stress reducers:

Prioritize sleep. There are always things to be done. Always things I could be completing. But if I’m able to get more sleep, then the next day, I’ll be more rested and (hand in hand) more productive. (Amy, 32-year-old wife, mom of a 4-month-old baby, and a college student)

Prioritize working out. Sometimes if I need a break from a stressful situation, I go to my gym and lift weights while blasting some music. It helps me feel less helpless in my situation because if I can do something physically hard, I feel more confident in my abilities. Sometimes it’s mentally hard, but even if it’s not super structured or strict, even just a short, 15-minute workout helps me feel more accomplished and capable. (Christa, almost 20-year-old college sophomore & volleyball player)

Prioritize your priorities. Make a list of what you need to do that is stressing you out – and then cross them off as you accomplish them. My stress drops off drastically as I get things done. Plus, I often find that the things I’ve been putting off doing take less time than I thought they would. I’m able to do the things I enjoy without dreading doing what I’ve put off. (Katie Beth, 34-year-old wife and mom and extrovert who loves helping others learn more about how they are wired, what makes them tick, their strengths – and helping them apply that knowledge in everyday life.)

Prioritize both relaxing outdoor and indoor activities. An excellent hike, preferably in a new location, always helps me feel more settled, followed by a wonderful hot tub soak and a good book and a cup of tea. And don’t forget a few pieces of chocolate. (Meagan, 31-year-old wife, mom of 4 kids, and former Microsoft project manager)