Stress can be managed in a variety of ways. Lying on white sand beaches and taking a warm bath are some of the most attractive options. However, the more practical course of action might be to brush up on your planning abilities.
Planning is the most effective way to reduce stress because it keeps tensions from beginning in the first place, according to a recent study by Harvard psychologist Robert Epstein. So start reviewing this list if you want to be more proactive about fostering calm and peace.
How Preparation Lowers Stress
Assume command. Feeling like you have no control over circumstances is a common source of stress. Planning serves as a reminder that you are in charge of deciding how to react to events.
Be organized. Unpleasant surprises can be avoided by planning your day or month. For instance, it's less likely that you'll find out you have overnight guests the same weekend that you're attending a wedding.
Take care of your health. Obesity, diabetes, and heart conditions are serious stress-related health problems. On the other hand, de-stressing might even extend your life.
Avoid putting things off. When projects are broken down into smaller steps with attainable deadlines, you're more likely to finish them. Once more, confidence in what needs improvement improves motivation and success rates.
Sense more content. Planning enables you to distinguish between important and urgent tasks. As you spend more time engaging in worthwhile pursuits, the quality of your life improves.
Advice for Reducing Stress Through Planning:
Keep a time log. Discovering where your time is currently going is the first step. Use a free app or keep a diary for at least a few weeks. You might be shocked by how long some straightforward tasks take.
Organize your efforts. You can make changes once you better understand your typical day. For example, you could move the more difficult tasks to when you're most productive. The exercise regimen you've been promising yourself can fit in.
Arrange your belongings. The sensory overload of clutter brings on anxiety. Reduce the number of things you own. Purchase eye-catching storage options for your home and workplace.
Put things in writing. For example, you're trying to remember when your daughter's soccer practice starts, and if you have enough eggs for breakfast, do you need help focusing? Create calendars and lists for those things so you can concentrate on other things.
Establish priorities. Planning is more than just finishing tasks. Consider your values and objectives first. If you want to spend more time with your family or start a healthier lifestyle, ensure your chosen system will help you achieve those goals.
Control your obligations. If you accept too many commitments, you must cross some things off your to-do list. You'll be more capable and reliable if you respect your limitations.
Create routines. Making a task automatic helps you work more effectively and lessens the pressure of making various choices. To complete chores and errands more quickly, group related ones together. Commit to going for a morning run rather than fighting the urge to hit the snooze button every day.
Arrange for downtime. Planning can also be enjoyable. Take regular breaks to reenergize your body and mind. Schedule time for play and laughter in your lists and calendars.
Planning is essential to use your time effectively; stress and time management are closely related. Think positively and make plans to be more productive and at ease.