#7 of the 101 Ways to Love Your Job

Stress Can Be Managed...But Cured?

The term stress has become a badge of honor in our current world of faxes, email, and back-to-back schedules. When asked how we are doing, we inevitably answer, "Oh, I'm so busy; I am so stressed out." To imagine answering, "Just feeling relaxed and enjoying today's workload," would likely mean being labeled a slacker, or at best, odd.

In developing a stress management program, we often mean exercise, eating differently, meditating, and getting enough sleep. It may be more useful to ask why these things would have to be "managed" or even mandated by a physician. Why do we have to take a class to do these things?

The answer is likely that you do not see yourself as a priority. You have not incorporated into your to-do list that you are also an important relationship that needs attention. You are a valuable tool in your life and you need to be 'recharged' if you are to effectively run that life.

Once you see yourself as valuable and irreplaceable, you will naturally and effortlessly begin to maintain and exercise your body. You will not, however, follow your best friend's regimen or the latest infomercial's suggestion. You will find what works for your body, your life, and your abilities. You will like what you do to make sure your body is moved regularly and fed correctly.

While fat is stored, fitness is not. Natural principles govern our bodies, like the notion that we are not built to sit behind a PC all day and in front of a TV all night. Stress isn't something to be fixed or cured, but an indicator that you are not listening to your body and that you are not listening to yourself.

More articles on stress management can be found on my website Work-Stress-Solutions.Com.

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