Tips for Managing Stress

How to Slow Down in a High-Speed World

It seems like everyone today is on fast-forward. Even I, who was born laid-back and buoyant, have gotten caught up in the rush. Most of the time I run because I see others running, I spring for things because I feel this prickling pressure that I must, and snap because I've just gotten snapped at. Is this all necessary? Are we, in the long run, just setting ourselves up for serious disorders? Is it all that great that we're a bunch of high-strung, impatient curmudgeons?

Will it be worth it in the end?

Even those who seek out "solutions" to their stress-related issues are creating even more stress in their lives. They cram in workout sessions between getting out of work and getting home, they grab onto the newest "stress-busting" trend, and become frustrated when something that claims to reduce their stress does not. Anti-aging products are huge because people are trying to reverse the havoc that they know they have wreaked upon their bodies from their rigorous lifestyles.

The tips I offer here are not high-tech. They're not even novel. I'm going to reiterate things that you have always known, but have left behind in your pursuit of success, security, or whatever it is you hope to gain in life. These may be things that your grandmother may have told you and caused you to wrinkle your nose at the time. This time, give these a chance before you wrinkle your nose.

1. When you feel your pulse rising, remember the Serenity Prayer. What does it teach you? That you should accept the things that you can't change, have the courage to change the things that you can and have the wisdom to know the difference. Every time I miss the train or I have to wait to hear some ugly news, I remind myself of the essence of this prayer. I ask myself, "What can I do?" I make a list of all the feasible things I can do, try them, and if they don't work out, I accept the fact that I have done all that I could. And then I distract myself usefully. It takes work to come to the point of acceptance, and it takes faith in this prayer, but it does wonders for easing your mind and for putting an end to the feeling of suspended anxiety.