The nature of my job is to deal with problems. All day long I need to find solutions and coping strategies for not only MY stressors, but also the stressors of those under my supervision and those we serve. We serve over 60 clients and their families and I manage and supervise over 100 caregivers. It can get extremely stressful.
Possibly my strategies are not that effective but here they are: VERBALIZE-- I find it very stress relieving to talk about my stress, even complain, even rant and rave a bit about it. If I had to always be calm and cool, it would eat at my stomach. I like to "get it off my chest" to the people I work with, and hopefully, they feel that they can also do the same.
My next coping mechanism is VISUALIZATION-- I imagine myself out of the stressful situation in another calmer situation, idyllic situation. One of my favorites is picking out my dream house with my lottery winnings. That relaxes quickly.
Another coping strategy is MUMBLING--- I say some choice words under my breath. It's ok. Nobody hears.
NATURE is a good one too. I like to look out my window at the trees in the breeze, the sky, the wind. Going out in nature is the very best. That just reminded me that I havent been to the beach yet this summer. YIKES!! Gotta get to the beach. I think I would like a bird feeder also. From my home office, I can see roses. From my work office, there is a nice stream and (fake, of course, but still nice) waterfall. It helps to have nice surroundings.
PROCRASTINATION also works well on many days, ("I'll do it tomorrow") but it does take the pressure off and some things work out just fine on their own.
DRINK A CUP OF COFFEE is really a very good idea. Pair it with a lovely novel and I can really de-stress.
PETS- I begged my husband for a big soft kitten and got one. That was four years ago. That cat is still helping me de-stress. Pets are good for everyone, as long as there is someone around to take care of the pet (cats are very low care). My cat really helps my blood pressure.
