How to Better Handle the Stress in Your Life

Today, I want to dive into a topic that affects us all – stress. We all face it at some point, and it can be overwhelming, especially when we’re juggling work, family, and personal goals. But I want you to know– we’re in this together. And I’m here to share some ideas to help you navigate life’s storms with grace and find moments of calmness and balance. 

I recently sent out a survey to my kids at church to find out what areas they were struggling with and wouldn’t you know, STRESS was high on the list. So last night we talked about stress triggers and coping strategies. It was an eye-opening discussion that reminded me of the times when stress used to knock me down. From my days as a young mom in college relying on only one source of feeble income, to becoming a dedicated teacher who faced the heavy demands of the classroom, I’ve experienced my fair share of stress. And let’s not forget the financial challenges of being a business owner during a recession – talk about stress on steroids! 

Let’s face it, we all encounter different stressors in our lives, especially in different seasons. Sometimes it’s the never-ending demands of our jobs, the balancing act of family responsibilities, or the financial worries that come with being a responsible adult. Even seemingly mundane tasks like dealing with traffic jams or navigating through endless to-do lists can trigger stress. But remember, it’s okay to feel overwhelmed sometimes; it’s a natural part of life.

For instance, imagine this scenario: You have a major project at work with a tight deadline, and your kids need help with their homework. On top of that, your car broke down, and you have a pile of bills waiting to be paid. In moments like these, it’s easy to feel like you’re drowning in stress. But take a deep breath, my friend, because you are stronger than you think!

First and foremost, acknowledge your feelings. It’s normal to feel stressed, and it doesn’t mean you’re weak or incapable. Next, lean on your faith and remember the beautiful words from Philippians 4:6-7: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

Now, let’s talk about practical advice to help you navigate through these challenges:

1. Prioritize and Delegate: Identify the most important things you need to get done and focus on them. Delegate other responsibilities where possible, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Teamwork makes the dream work!
2. Take Mini Breaks: When the pressure is on, take short breaks to clear your mind. Step outside, take a few deep breaths, or do a quick stretching exercise. It’ll recharge your energy and help you refocus.
3. Practice Positive Self-Talk: Replace negative thoughts with positive affirmations. Remind yourself of your strengths and past successes. You are capable of handling whatever comes your way! (Write out and place reminders EVERYWHERE to remind you that you are capable of doing hard things.)
4. Set Boundaries: Learn to say no when necessary. Establish healthy boundaries to protect your time and energy. It’s okay to decline additional commitments if you’re already overwhelmed.
5. Embrace Humor: Laughter truly is the best medicine! Find joy in small things and surround yourself with people who bring positivity and laughter into your life. (Our family is known for turning on a Bill Murray movie to get us into a better frame of mind!)
6. Lean on Support: Reach out to friends, family, or a support group. Sharing your feelings with others can be incredibly comforting, and you’ll realize you’re not alone in your struggles.

Remember, life’s challenges are opportunities for growth. Embrace stress as a chance to learn more about yourself and your capabilities. And most importantly, lean on God for guidance and peace. His power is made perfect in our weakness.

We all face stress, so take one step at a time, and don’t be too hard on yourself. You’re doing great, and I believe in you!

PS- I actually created a download for our teens with some support around helping them deal with stressors in their life. Grab this freebie here.