There are many causes of stress in our lives from having to multi-task, procrastinating, forgetfulness, being late, not preparing, lack of organization, and the inability to get a good nights sleep.

We are all susceptible to the above triggers, but learning how to deal with these issues can help you to reduce the stress you feel so that you can be healthier and happier. Let’s examine each trigger one at a time:

Multi-tasking can seem like a good thing because we can accomplish more of our daily goals, but we do so at a cost to our minds and bodies. Completing more than one task at the same time can put a strain on our brains and our physical body. We feel rushed, we breathe quickly and usually with shallow breaths that rob us of needed oxygen. Slow down, delegate tasks when necessary and breathe deeply and slowly.

Procrastination or putting tasks off can put a lot of pressure on you when the time comes to produce results and you are short on time to complete the task. The result may be that the task is not done well, or not done completely. If it is a school assignment, it will adversely affect your grades. If it is a work-related task, it will influence your job performance review and could affect your pay rate or even your ability to remain employed. Learn how to schedule tasks by using a calendar or day planner. Give yourself plenty of time to complete a task. Break a task down into mini-bites if possible or at least try to do difficult tasks early in the day when you have more energy and are more alert.

Is running late a problem for you? Try setting an alarm 15 minutes earlier than normal. Have a buddy call you to remind you about a meeting or important appointment; but don’t forget to make personal reminders for yourself as well. Set your home clocks 10 minutes ahead of the real time so that you will leave earlier than you think you are. Just don’t rely on having more time by remembering you set them to be early. If your appointment is at 2p, think to yourself, that your appointment is at 1:45p instead. Reward yourself for being on time.

Having difficulty remembering things? Try putting your brain on a training mission and exercise your brain with crossword puzzles or memory games. Keep your brain active by reading or answering quiz show questions on TV. When you are actively feeding your brain new information or making use of the ability to recall information, you are exercising your brain. These exercises just may help you to be able to remember important dates like anniversaries and birthdays and where you put your keys.

Often times not being prepared is a result of not being organized in either your study habits or your work ethics need a little polishing. It is easier to be prepared for a task when you understand the importance of the task and what is expected of you. Ask questions when you are being assigned a task to do at school, home or work. Find out exactly what you are expected to do, how you are expected to do it, when it needs to be finished and why the task is necessary. The answers to these questions can help you to understand what is expected and why it is important to complete the task. The more you know, the better you can perform!

Know your limitations on time and weigh each proposed task carefully the next time someone asks you to do something. Take the time to check in your day planner or calendar so that you can be aware of other events or deadlines that are around the same time frame as the task you are being asked to undertake. Ask yourself if you really need to take on this task? Do not be afraid to say no! You are not the only capable person in the world. Make a suggestion of someone else who could accomplish the task. Be polite when refusing, but know your limits. Do not overextend yourself, it will only add to your stress.

Get organized, clutter can add to stress!

Sleep is a necessary part of being healthy. You may need to reduce your involvement in extra activities to free up time to relax during the day and get to bed earlier at night. Our bodies need rest to reduce stress.

There are many triggers that put stress on us all, but learning how to deal with them properly can lead to healthier and happier lives.

scott meyers is a staff writer for its entirely natural, a resource for helping you achieve a naturally healthy body, mind, and spirit. you may contact our writers through the web site. follow this link for more information on stress management.

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