In these challenging times of a difficult economy, international tension, and a daily grind that seems busier than ever, how can you avoid sinking under the weight of all the stress? Here are some tips for staying afloat in the sea of life.

1) Know what you can control and what you can't.
It's clear that you can manage many aspects of your life, but there are other situations that are outside of your control. There is no sense focusing on circumstances that may occur due to another's actions - you can be in charge of your own behavior, but you have no control over what anyone else does.

2) Release any fear about the future.
Worrying about what could happen tomorrow will not do you a bit of good in handling your challenges today. Let's face it, on any given day there are a variety of unfortunate events that could occur, but that doesn't mean they will. Keep your thoughts firmly focused on the positive things that could unfold for you, and ignore thoughts of worry or negativity.

3) Exercise at least three times a week.
It's important to get your body moving in exercise a few times a week or more. If you have a sedentary job (like I do when I'm writing a book or an article), it's crucial to exercise frequently! The more you sit, the harder it is to get motivated to move. Don't let inertia keep you from letting your body stretch and limber up. Make a practice of rewarding yourself with exercise that you enjoy doing.

4) Spend time alone in quiet thought or meditation.
A recent study indicated that we don't breathe deeply enough most of the time. If I don't pay attention, my breathing can get shallow as I work or go about my day's activities. Take the time to breathe deeply as you sit in quiet thought each morning. Setting aside a regular time each day for peaceful contemplation will do a lot to keep your stress level down.

5) Schedule time away from your job or other responsibilities.
Sometimes you just have to step away from your duties and take time for you. See a movie, take a long walk in nature, read a novel - life can be more spontaneous and less regimented if you let it. You can gain a new perspective from taking a break from the routine for a while.

6) Monitor your thoughts for any negative chatter, and remove it.
In my new book, The Seasons of Your Career (available in May, 2003), I devote an entire chapter to Career Master Thinking - a method for you to think your way to success. You can train your mind to get rid of any critical or negative chatter, replacing the empty self-talk with positive and helpful thoughts that can lead you to increased success.

7) Have faith that your destiny is one of accomplishment and joy.
Each person has a unique destiny of success. Providence is calling out to you, and you'll want to listen and choose the path that calls your name. By believing that there is a perfect place for you in the universe, you're already halfway there to finding it.

© Kathy Sanborn
Life Channels Staff Writer
All Rights Reserved

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