Dear Lucille,
Should you find yourself stressed, here's a little exercise I've found helpful:
First, take a piece of paper and write for 2 minutes (no longer) the things that are bringing you stress. Set that aside.
Next, on a new piece of paper create four categories, labeling them:
Things that bring me stress that are outside my control
Things that bring me stress that are within my control
Things I need less of in my life, or "I will lower my stress by cutting out..."
Thins I need more of in my life, or "I will lower my stress by adding more..."
All the things from your initial 2 minute stress list must find a place in category 1 or category 2. Once you've assigned them all, take a look at category 1. You may find that more fits in here than you expected. Now, take a deep breath...and then scribble over it while you smile. Don't take long here, these have already taken too much of your time. Leave the category 2 alone for now.
Take 5 minutes and fill out categories 3 and 4. Think of things you may be missing in your life that stress has taken from you. Think of things from your childhood that brought you joy that you could easily bring back to your routine. Think of simple, non-destructive things you presently enjoy. Write them down.
Now look at categories 2, 3, and 4. Select 2 simple things you will do today, then do it. Revisit your ideas each morning as you begin anew to consider what is in your control, and continue to let go of what is not.
And be happy--most things which bring you stress will fade away with time and you'll wish you hadn't given them any power.
Love,
Daddy
(photo taken in driveway in Wisconsin...van seen in background, stuck as it often was. 2018)
Comments