handle stress better

How I did it: I think there's always room for improvement on this goal.  But the past few months have prompted me to believe I can honestly say I am handling stress better.  I've consistently met some very stressful circumstances with a smile and without getting irritable or depressed for long periods of time like I used to.  Sure, I still get stressed and sometimes I don't act my best under these circumstances, but I've made enough progress to remove this from my list for a while.

The number one thing I did was practice yoga and meditation.  I wrote about my journey in my blog and kept a journal.  I very consciously tried to integrate these practices into my life.

Lessons & tips: Practice yoga and meditation.  They are such gifts!


It's very important to focus on what you love and to give yourself parts of your life that do not generate stress.


It's important to accept and fully experience your negative emotions but not react to them.


It's important to have love and support - although this is not always
within one's control - and to have people in your life who believe you
can change and do better.


It's important to sometimes lower your standards and just get things done, not perfected, but just done.  I have a sticker on my computer at work that says, "Remember that the only people who are finished with everything are dead!"  Accept that there is stuff that is undone, some of it very important.  Accept your limitations.  Figure out where you can afford to compromise on your to-do list, and be willing to compromise.

Aug 13, 11:17AM PDT | 0 comments | 2 cheers