In reading over the the list of ways to change your physical response to stress, you might have thought, “yes, those are good ideas” or “well, maybe I’ll try one of those tomorrow.” While those ideas were easy to read, it’s a bit harder to actually get yourself to use them, even if you know they’d help.
Well, here’s a quick way to start on your way to reducing stress…
1. Choose only 1 idea from the "stress-reducers" list or come up with your own idea. Then, get a piece of paper right now and write it down.
The one idea I’ll do is: ________________________________________________
For example:
The one idea I’ll do is: Exercise more.
2. We all know that good intentions can easily get derailed. So we’ll start to address that ahead of time.
One thing that may get in the way of me doing #1 is: _________________________
For example: Rain. If it’s raining, I can’t exercise outside.
3. I’ll deal with this obstacle by: __________________________________________
For example: I’ll get some exercise videos, so I can exercise inside.
4. Finally, I want you to make your goal as specific as possible. It’s more likely you’ll do it!
So instead of: A specific goal is:
1. Exercise more 1. Exercise 2 times a week
2. Eat better 2. Eat 2 servings of fruit a day
3. Meditate 3. Spend 10 minutes meditating, 3 days per week
My specific goal is: __________________________________________________
For example: Exercise 2 times a week.
Here is an example, with all 4 steps:
1. The one idea I’ll do is: Get better at time management.
2. One thing that may get in the way of me doing #1 is: I’m always running behind.
3. I’ll deal with this obstacle by: Leave 5 minutes earlier than I think I have to.
4. My specific goal is: Give myself 5 extra minutes to get to work each morning this week.
