You’ll notice I did not post last week.  It’s been a pretty chaotic (to say the least) start to January.  I’m not complaining as January has started with a bang with new clients, new responsibilities and a new outlook to 2010.

Having said that, this “bang” has caused me to get a little frazzled!  The word more appropriately defining my frame of mind right now is “Stressed Out!”  Yes, you know that word, you are not alone. 

Stress affects each and every one of us at some point in our life.  Some of us it happens more frequently, and in most cases cannot be avoided…however we can find ways to manage our stress.

Here’s a few tips to help you through those “frazzled” days:

1)      Say No – Taking too much on, because we don’t want to disappoint others or we’re afraid of their reaction is not only going to affect our work life, but our health as well.  Know it’s okay to say No.

2)     Set Realistic Deadlines – Be realistic when setting deadlines to ensure that you have all the resources, information and time needed to start and complete the project within a stress free time line.

3)     Get Plenty of Sleep – Sleep allows your body to rejuvenate. Without enough sleep your mind and body will begin to get agitated much quicker and which inevitably will lead to stress.

4)     Ask for Help – We can’t be everything to everybody, that’s why it’s important to know our limitations and ask for help.

5)     Most Importantly – SMILE – Pretty simple isn’t it? Having a good outlook and being positive can really make a difference when coping with stress. 

Wishing you a stress-free week!