How to be kinder to yourself.
Life can be stressful enough without unknowingly adding tension. Check out these five possible sources of stress. Any of them sound familiar? Consider the quick follow-up tips that may help.
- You often find yourself thinking about all that’s wrong — or could go wrong. Or your inner voice tends to be unkind and critical.
Tips to try:- Catch yourself. Just being aware that you’ve hopped on a gloomy train of thought may help you put on the brakes.
- Practice rethinking negative self-talk. Try spinning it to be more positive.
- Focus on what’s in your control. Is there something you can do about the situation? If not, urge yourself to let it go.
- You feel overwhelmed — even on your days off. You don’t take time to relax, recharge or have fun.
Tips to try:- Take a close look at your to-dos. Pick a few key items — and work off a shorter, doable list.
- Delegate tasks, such as household chores, when possible. Think of asking for help as a strength, not a weakness.
- Remember to give yourself credit for all you get done.
- You’re busy or tired — so fitness gets pushed aside. But being active is a great way to fend off and reduce stress.
Tips to try:- Start small: Fit a couple 10-minute walks into your workday. It may do wonders to clear your head. Don’t forget the walking paths around Appliance Park or the Meadow just on the other side of AP5.
- Focus on finding activities you enjoy – include your family and friends.
- Pick specific time slots — and treat workouts as unbreakable appointments.
- You’re rarely fully present. You might be mindlessly checking your phone. Or your mind is racing with thoughts of the past or future.
Tips to try:- Work on being more mindful during everyday tasks, such as driving or showering. When your mind drifts, practice coming back to — and soaking in — the present moment.
- Notice — and be grateful for — the little things. A plum’s purple glow. The taste of a cup of tea. A friend’s warm smile.
- Put digital distractions aside — especially when you want to enjoy someone’s company, savor a meal or simply relax.
- You don’t give yourself a break — and you may have unrealistic expectations of others, too.
Tips to try:- Remind yourself that real life tends to be naturally imperfect.
- Think of mistakes as an opportunity to learn and do better next time.
- Amuse yourself. See if you can find humor in not-so-perfect situations.
- Literally schedule breaks during the work day. When your work day is booked with meetings and an overly ambitious to-do list, it doesn’t leave room for you to decompress or more importantly, think creatively.
If you’d like to talk with someone who can help, use your EAP benefits through Anthem. To make an appointment, visit parkwellcarecenter.com/patient-portal, stop by the Park Well Care Center in person, or call 502-452-0777. If you have not registered for the Patient Portal, call 502-452-0777 to receive a registration link. You can also access EAP services through the Anthem EAP at 855-873-4932 or AnthemEAP.com (access code GEAppliances).